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# OEM Vehicle Connectivity Devices
The Ford SmartLink Enables Car Connectivity in Older Models

By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2017-01-27 | Autos
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/car-connectivity
References: [geeky-gadgets](http://www.geeky-gadgets.com/ford-smartlink-to-bring-connected-features-to-older-cars-27-01-2017/) & [media.ford](https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2017/01/27/ford-vehicle-owners-upgrade-2010-2016-vehicles-with-connectivity-features.html)

[Connected car features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/datadriven-connected-cars) have quickly invaded in the mainstream vehicle market, but the [Ford](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ford-digital-experience) SmartLink takes a different approach to car connectivity. Rather than requiring drivers to upgrade to the latest model on the market, the Ford SmartLink works by upgrading existing vehicles to satisfy growing demand for connectivity.

Set to be compatible with vehicles from 2010 to 2016, the Ford SmartLink is set to start being available at Ford and [Lincoln](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ford-x-amazon) dealerships starting this summer. The device will be available to drivers as a means of putting a stronger focus on technology within their vehicle in order to increase car connectivity and longevity of the car. Pricing for the new Ford SmartLink has not yet been announced by the brand.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 2.1/10
- Popularity: 20% | Activity: 34% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/autos)

## Key Themes

### Why This Trend Is Growing

- **Vehicle Retrofitting Technology:** Opportunity for companies to provide devices that upgrade older vehicles with modern connectivity technology.
- **Non-vehicle-specific Connectivity Devices:** Opportunity for companies to provide connectivity devices that can be used with multiple vehicle brands and models.
- **Subscription-based Connectivity Upgrades:** Opportunity for companies to provide subscription-based connectivity upgrades to incentivize customers to continuously upgrade their vehicles.

### Industries Being Reshaped

- **Automotive Industry:** Opportunity for car manufacturers to create and market retrofitting devices for older vehicles to compete with companies like Ford.
- **Technology Industry:** Opportunity for technology companies to provide connectivity upgrades for older vehicles and capitalize on the growing demand for car connectivity.
- **Subscription-based Services Industry:** Opportunity for companies to create and market subscription-based connectivity upgrades for vehicles to establish new revenue streams and retain customers.

## Related on Trend Hunter

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