Watch CBS News

"Do Not Disturb" Added To Sync

Ford is adding a "Do Not Disturb" button to the Sync system in many of the automaker's cars and trucks. Ford will also add "lock-out" capabilities that are not relevant to the task of driving while the vehicle is in motion.

Ford will offer the new features on vehicles equipped with MyFord or MyLincoln Touch, starting with the 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX. The "Do Not Disturb" feature blocks incoming phone calls or text messages and diverts them to voice mail for listening or viewing later. Teh advantage is the phone remains 'on,' so drivers can still make voice-activated outgoing calls, and the SYNC 911 Assist feature can make a call to 911 in case of emergency.

A Ford engineer of multimedia and infotainment says the system supports bans on texting while driving, and at the same time meets customer desires and continued growing demand for mobile connectivity, including texting.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.