The Japanese automaker is considering adopting Ford AppLink technology Toyota announced today that it may adopt the SmartDeviceLink (SDL) protocol, which is the open-source version of Ford’s smartphone-linking technology, called Ford AppLink. Toyota would integrate SDL into its infotainment system, allowing drivers to command and control smartphone apps through dashboard buttons, display screens and voice recognition. SDL competes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as a smartphone-mirroring API for car infotainment systems. SDL, however, can be customized by each automaker to have a unique-looking interface. Toyota’ current infotainment system, called Entune, is proprietary and only allows a limited number of mobile apps — such as Bing and Pandora — to be used via a USB-connected smartphone. Specifically, Toyota is collaborating with Livio, a Ford subsidiary, for the implementation of SDL technology in future Toyota and Lexus vehicles. In 2011, Toyota and Ford agreed to collaborate on the development of standards for in-car telematics. Toyota said today’s announcement builds on that earlier collaboration. “The in-car app market is quickly evolving. Developing robust, flexible, safe and user-friendly connected services is a priority for us, and one that we believe is shared by Ford, Livio and other contributors to SDL technology,” Shigeki Terashi, Toyota’s senior managing officer, said in a statement. Ford vehicles with the Sync infotainment system use AppLink as the application programming interface that allows smartphone apps such as Spotify, Glympse, iHeartRadio, Pandora and others to be accessed by drivers. Ford created SmartDeviceLink by contributing the AppLink software to the open-source community. The carmaker rolled out the API in 2013. “Dashboard interface design and smartphone connectivity are key elements for product differentiation within the industry,” Don Butler, Ford’s executive director of connected vehicles and services, said in a statement. “We’re pleased other members of the industry feel the same way, and look forward to working together to drive even more support for the SDL developer community.” Related content news analysis Apple earnings: About that iPhone 'slump' in China Based on information from Thursday's earnings report, it seems that data pointing to an iPhone slump in China were over-baked. By Jonny Evans May 03, 2024 9 mins iMac iPhone Apple news Microsoft begins to phase out ‘classic’ Teams Microsoft is encouraging Teams customers to move to the new, faster version of the collaboration app; the older version will be switched off next year. By Matthew Finnegan May 03, 2024 3 mins Microsoft Teams Collaboration Software Productivity Software news analysis Apple confirms it will open up the iPad in Europe this fall The latest efforts to comply with Europe’s Digital Markets Act mean developers can offer to side load apps to both iPhones and iPads in the EU. Apple has also taken steps to improve what it offers to smaller and non-commercial developers in the By Jonny Evans May 02, 2024 6 mins iPad Apple Mobile Apps news Udacity offers laid-off US workers free access to its courses for 30 days Sign-ups will be available over the next 30 days By Lucas Mearian May 02, 2024 4 mins Technology Industry IT Jobs IT Skills Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe