GM's just announced details on its new Sync-fighting infotainment system called MyLink. As in "Chevy" MyLink and "Buick" MyLink and "GMC" MyLink and...well, you get the picture. Basically, it does everything Sync does. It's a shame it took 'em three years to do it.
So let's walk through what MyLink does.
On a mechanical level, there's upgraded USB connectivity, adding flash memory capability to its USB device connections. This provides users with the ability to access approved applications through the steering wheel. You know, just like Sync.
MyLink also includes a seven-inch, high-resolution, full-color touch-screen display. You know, just like Sync (when you add the MyFord Touch package). Actually, Sync uses an eight-inch touchscreen. Not that size matters. Actually it does.
It's also got a bluetooth hands-free voice control system powered by Nuance, allowing simple voice commands to initiate phone calls and select radio stations or media from portable MP3 players and smartphones. You know, just like Sync.
You get, for the tap of a button on the steering wheel, verbal control of smartphone applications like "play (artist name)" or "call (name of contact)" to keep the driver's hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. You know, just like Sync.
It's got Pandora internet radio to create personalized radio stations based on favorite artists or genres. You know, just like Sync.
It's got Stitcher SmartRadio to enable access to thousands of audio programming choices allowing customers to build their own personalized listening experience. You know, just like Sync.
MyLink uses Gracenote to identify the music collection on the driver's smartphone or MP3 player and present information such as artist name, genres and album cover art on the MyLink screen and enable users to select similar music to the tunes they love. You know, just like Sync.
The Gracenote-powered MyLink's voice activation system allows users to access music using artist nicknames, such as "The Boss," "G.N.R," or "The Fab Four" by using MyLink's touch-screen or steering wheel buttons and voice control interfaces. You know, just like Sync. But this sounds really complicated and annoying.
MyLink will also be integrated with Powermat charging. You know, just like... actually, Sync won't have this.
Chevrolet MyLink will be available beginning with the 2012 Chevrolet Volt and Equinox this fall and then expand to other vehicles in the Chevy lineup over the next 18 months.
Basically, MyLink sounds sort of like a half-assed version of Sync — and It only took 'em three years to do it. Damn bankruptcy.