- Ford plans to embed Apple Maps directly into its Universal Electric Vehicle Platform, with a midsize pickup truck set for release in 2027.
- The integration will offer turn-by-turn directions using natural language, real-time traffic and incident information, intuitive search featuring detailed place cards, and routing options.
- The vehicle will also feature an intelligent EV routing feature and battery preconditioning.
- Drivers won’t need an iPhone to use Apple Maps, although CarPlay will still be available in Ford vehicles.
- Ford is also working with Apple to build the next generation of its BlueCruise driver-assist system.
- The updated BlueCruise will use road-level information from Apple Maps to power its hands-free highway driving experience.
- Apple is not directly involved in the development of Ford’s next-generation autonomous driving system.
- Ford’s Amy Mast stated, “Apple is not building Ford’s self-driving technology,” emphasizing that Ford is developing its next-generation ADAS in-house.
Ford is integrating Apple Maps into its Universal Electric Vehicle Platform, set for a 2027 release, enhancing navigation with features like turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and intuitive search.12
The collaboration will also bolster Ford's BlueCruise driver-assist system, which will utilize road-level information from Apple Maps for a hands-free driving experience from on- to off-ramps.56
Ford clarified that while Apple Maps will support the driving experience, Apple is not directly involved in developing Ford's self-driving technology. Ford's Amy Mast stated, “Apple is not building Ford’s self-driving technology. Ford is developing our next-generation ADAS in-house through Latitude AI.”7
The integration of Apple Maps means drivers will not need an iPhone to access its features, although CarPlay will still be available. This strategic move positions Ford to enhance its EV offerings while maintaining control over its vehicle hardware and software.4
As the automotive industry shifts towards more integrated technology solutions, Ford's partnership with Apple signifies a significant step in the evolution of electric vehicles and autonomous driving systems.
“The integration will include intelligent EV routing and battery preconditioning, and drivers won't need an iPhone to use the system. Separately, Qualcomm and Samsung expanded their chip partnership, putting Snapdragon silicon in Galaxy phones, watches, and smart glasses, including the first Snapdragon-powered smartwatch.”
