Ford is First Automaker to integrate Radio Disney, Available with Ford SYNC AppLink

Radio Disney app for iOS and Android platforms will now integrate with available Ford SYNCŪ AppLink™ to stream music devoted to kids, tweens and families with a simple touch of a button inside Ford vehicles

DEARBORN, MI -- December 31, 2014: Ford Motor Company today announced the Radio Disney smartphone app will soon be available to Ford SYNCŪ AppLink™ users. Drivers will be able to stream music devoted to kids, tweens and families 24 hours a day inside a Ford vehicle at the touch of a button.

“While there are many music-streaming apps currently compatible with AppLink, Radio Disney is the first family-oriented music app,” said Julius Marchwicki, Ford Connected Services Product manager. “Drivers will be able to keep the entire family entertained while keeping their eyes on the road and their hands on the steering wheel.”

The Radio Disney app goes to work when the driver connects his or her smartphone to available Ford SYNC via Bluetooth. A static image of an artist’s CD cover will display on the screen along with play and pause buttons, allowing the driver to make music selections.

“We want to provide kids and families easy access to Radio Disney, and working with Ford presents a great opportunity to connect them while on the go,” said Eric Goldstein, vice president, Distribution and Consumer Engagement, Radio Disney. “With added integration of Ford SYNC AppLink technology in the Radio Disney app, kids can share their favorite music and programming in-car for a safe and interactive entertainment experience.”

Radio Disney is a 24-hour radio network devoted to kids, tweens and families. The app features family-friendly music by some of today’s most popular artists, as well as video with artist interviews and live performances. It is widely recognized as a music industry influencer, reaching nearly 21 million listeners each week.

Ford set the benchmark for in-car connectivity with SYNC. Through a paired mobile phone, Ford SYNC allows drivers to make and receive calls, as well as operate other features hands-free using voice controls. With Ford SYNC AppLink, customers can control their compatible apps using voice commands or buttons on the vehicle display. With the launch of available SYNC 3, Ford’s next-generation communications and entertainment system, AppLink will automatically discover and load the Radio Disney app onto the in-vehicle screen.

Ford SYNC AppLink is already in more than 1.5 million vehicles on the road in North America.

Radio Disney for Ford SYNC AppLink will be on display at the 2015 International CES in Las Vegas, Jan. 6-9, and available to customers in early 2015.