The Pandora Radio App Is Now Compatible With Ford Sync AppLink And Mini Connected
January 20, 2011
Pandora Media released a minor, but notable, update to their Pandora Radio iOS app. Pandora Radio v3.1.6 simply adds support for Ford Sync AppLink and the Mini Connected Infotainment System.
When linked via Bluetooth to a vehicle's in-car connectivity system, you're able to control the Pandora Radio app's functions using voice commands, plus steering wheel and dashboard buttons. Voice commands include phrases like "Help", "Thumbs up", "Thumbs down", "Play station: [station name]", "Skip", "Pause", "Resume", "Bookmark song", "Song info", "List my stations", "Create station from artist", and "Create station from song."
Unfortunately, the AppLink extension isn't widely available yet. Thus far, only owners of the 2011 Ford Fiesta can download AppLink. Although, the Mini Connected Infotainment System is available as an option for all 2011 Minis: Hardtop, Convertible, Clubman, and Countryman. Of course, future models equipped with these systems should offer the ability.
Engadget got a chance to observe a live demo of AppLink working with the Pandora Radio app running on a Droid X earlier this month.
As something else to keep in mind, the Ford Sync AppLink extension works with OpenBeak for BlackBerry and Stitcher Radio. However, the Stitcher Radio iOS app has not yet been updated for connectivity.
Pandora Radio is a universal app compatible with iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch running iOS 3.0 or later, and available in the App Store at no cost.
When linked via Bluetooth to a vehicle's in-car connectivity system, you're able to control the Pandora Radio app's functions using voice commands, plus steering wheel and dashboard buttons. Voice commands include phrases like "Help", "Thumbs up", "Thumbs down", "Play station: [station name]", "Skip", "Pause", "Resume", "Bookmark song", "Song info", "List my stations", "Create station from artist", and "Create station from song."
Unfortunately, the AppLink extension isn't widely available yet. Thus far, only owners of the 2011 Ford Fiesta can download AppLink. Although, the Mini Connected Infotainment System is available as an option for all 2011 Minis: Hardtop, Convertible, Clubman, and Countryman. Of course, future models equipped with these systems should offer the ability.
Engadget got a chance to observe a live demo of AppLink working with the Pandora Radio app running on a Droid X earlier this month.
As something else to keep in mind, the Ford Sync AppLink extension works with OpenBeak for BlackBerry and Stitcher Radio. However, the Stitcher Radio iOS app has not yet been updated for connectivity.
Pandora Radio is a universal app compatible with iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch running iOS 3.0 or later, and available in the App Store at no cost.
