Ford adds support for Siri Eyes Free to older vehicles

A new update for Sync infotainment system brings with it Apple’s Siri Eyes Free feature to second-generation Sync system. This is found in Ford cars made in 2011 or earlier. It’s a bit late since the feature was first introduced by Apple back in 2012 when iOS 6 was released but better late than never. Siri Hands Free has less features than CarPlay but it does let you operate your iPhone with Siri. It’s a boon since Siri’s gotten more new features with the release of iOS 9. Sync 3 platform is coming out in 2016 and Ford does plan to support CarPlay, too, but they won’t give any details yet.

Sync 3.8 also brings with it an improved pairing capability between the iPhone and Sync. It automatically reconnects your phone if it gets disconnected.

Source: Cult of Mac

Samsung prepping response to Rose Gold iPhone 6S

Samsung hasn't wasted any time in spray painting the Galaxy Note 5 metallic pink which looks a lot like the Rose Gold variant of the iPhone 6S. Coming to South Korea on October 23, the 'Pink Gold' version of Samsung's flagship phablet might make it to other markets if it proves to be popular.       

Source: AJU Business Daily via AppleInsider

iPad Pro, Apple Pencil receive FCC approval ahead of launch

Apple's anticipated  12.9-inch iPad Pro tablet is coming in November and has reportedly received US FCC approval together with it's accessory Apple Pencil ahead of the upcoming launch.

iPad Pro will come in Silver, Space Gray and Gold variants, starting at $799 for a 32GB Wi-Fi only model.  28GB Wi-Fi only model costs US $949, and a Wi-Fi + LTE 128GB model will retail for US $1,079. Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard will retail for US $99 and $169 respectively as standalone accessories. Canadian prices are currently unavailable.

First Look at the 2016 Chevrolet Volt EV

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Scott, Quebec - I was invited to the stunning Quebec countryside where Fall colours were peaking in time for the Canadian launch of the 2016 Chevy Volt EV. Offering longer range than its predecessor (85 KM on a full electric charge vs. 61 KM on previoud generation), the new Volt brings aggressive styling, lighter yet more capacious batteries, improved power on a range extender gas engine as well as various new charging technologies.

Featuring MyLink and also the ability to run Apple CarPlay connectivity, new safety features include Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Alert, 4G-LTE and for Canada standard heated steering, front seats and side mirrors. Starting at CAD $40,010, the 2016 Volt is hoping to disrupt notions that Hybrid EVs need to look fugly or compromise on performance, storage space or convenience. Stay tuned for my full driving impressions of Canada's latest EV/Hybrid.