Ford eyes move towards all-digital

Factory-fit CD players are destined to become a thing of the past, as sales of digital albums continue to grow, reckons Ford.

The company among the first to scrap multi-CD changers, with the new Focus being equipped with Bluetooth and USB connectivity instead.

Sheryl Connelly, global trends and futuring manager at Ford: 'In-car entertainment technology is moving digital more rapidly than almost any other element of the vehicle experience. The in-car CD player is destined to fade away in the face of exciting new technology.'

Ford is also due to launch its SYNC with MyFord Touch system an in-dashboard multimedia hub that promises a wealth of connectivity options including multiple USB ports, SD card ports, RCA inputs and Bluetooth.

The system will act as a wireless hotspot, allowing internet access through a USB or mobile phone broadband modem.

It will also have the potential to allow access to cloud computing services, such as the recently unveiled Apple iCloud and Google Music eliminating the need for music to be stored in the car.