Ford just made a big commitment to Android Auto. The company announced Monday that all 2017 models equipped with its SYNC 3 infotainment system will come with the ability to run ‘s phone-to-car interface.

Anyone running Android 5.0 up can sync their phone with their vehicle dashboard for displaying directions, using phone functions, listening to music, using voice comms. en we reviewed Android Auto in ne, 2015, we liked the fact that it took your eyes off your phone while driving, but the platform still had some maturing to do. And now it faces more competition: At I/O this year, showed Android Auto running straight off your phone, making in-dash connections unnecessary.

Some of Ford’s 2017 lineup is already available, including the Escape small SUV, the larger Explorer SUV, the Fusion sedan, the Mustang performance car. Other popular Ford vehicles, including the ge crossover, the F-150 pickup truck, the Focus compact car, the Super Duty pickup will roll out their Caray-capable 2017 models before the end of 2016.  

Ford’s long been in the forefront of connected-car technology, pioneering the SYNC infotainment system (originally in partnership with Microsoft) long before most drivers— arguably, most of the technology—was truly ready for it. The company introduced SYNC 3 late last year with major improvements. The company also announced Apple Caray compatibility on Monday.

y this matters: first heard about Ford’s triple personality during CES in nuary when Ford was showing off the SYNC 3 platform in stard mode, or with the auto interfaces for iOS Android. The big news here, however, is that every 2017 consumer-grade vehicle is rolling out with the capability. ior to this only select models came with SYNC 3. Note that ile Android Auto will help you with entertainment navigation, stard vehicle information controls such as climate controls remain firmly part of SYNC 3.