Ford's Sync has proven to be a capable device for hands-free calling, audio controls and other simple functions. But if Ford gets its way, the multimedia system could help monitor drivers for potentially life-saving medical conditions.
Ford is working with health companies to bring medical monitoring for diabetes, asthma and hypoglycemia into Ford vehicles.
The diabetes monitoring would work through a Bluetooth-enabled device that’s connected to the driver. The device would share glucose levels with the driver via audio or the center stack display, and it would send immediate alerts if glucose levels were low or high.
The asthma system would work via the Allergy Alert app, which would be available through Ford’s new AppLink eco system of in-car applications. When installed on a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, Allergy Alert would gather data about pollen levels in the area, and that data would be relayed to the driver. Another application under development would offer personalized, real-time solutions for those with asthma and diabetes.
These apps are still under development, but Ford is exploring ways to get them up and running soon; the Allergy App seems like a frontrunner.
Ford is also examining other long-term health and wellness technologies to monitor conditions such as heart rates, relaxation, or stress while driving.
-Colin Bird, Cars.com
