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NPR's Android, iOS apps join the ranks of Ford Sync AppLink

A Sync AppLink-enabled version of the NPR app for Android and iPhone will give select Ford drivers voice control over their NPR programming.

Antuan Goodwin Reviews Editor / Cars
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Expertise Reviewing cars and car technology since 2008 focusing on electrification, driver assistance and infotainment Credentials
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Antuan Goodwin
NPR app on Ford Sync AppLink
Users of NPR's Android and iOS apps will be able to view show data and voice command their programming with Ford Sync AppLink. Ford

LAS VEGAS--If you've ever wanted to tell the Car Talk guys to shut it, now's your chance because a Sync AppLink-enabled version of the NPR app for Android and iPhone will give select Ford drivers voice control over their NPR programming.

By saying "Hourly News," users can call up a 4- to 5-minute audio stream of the latest news of the hour. After saying "Stations," the driver will be able to select a live stream of his or her favorite local NPR affiliate. Likewise, the "Programs" command allows for quick access to specific program streams such as Car Talk or Fresh Air. Users can even browse and hear stories on specific topics, simply by issuing the the command "Topics" followed by a category--for example, "Science."

In the event that users need help with navigating the AppLink-enabled functions, they can get audio tips from Carl Kasell, former NPR newscaster and official judge and scorekeeper of Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

AppLink integration doesn't stop with voice. Users are also able to, for example, push radio presets for NPR stations to the physical preset buttons on the vehicle's dashboard. Of course, there are also play, pause, and skip controls via steering-wheel buttons.

The updated NPR app is available now through the Android Market and iTunes App Store.