Screens have become a near-defacto item in new automobiles these days and as a result, it’s easy to wonder how automakers can possibly reinvent a technology that’s become so ingrained in the minds of consumers. Ford and Lincoln think that they have found a way to do so and have big plans for the technology starting with the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus which will debut the Digital Experience system.
An Encompassing Digital Experience
Ford and Lincoln claim that software and screens will become a prominent part of the buying experience moving forward. While we have to wait a bit to see how this will flesh out in the long-term sales game, the Lincoln Nautilus does provide a sneak peek of how this will play out. A key feature of the revamped SUV is the all-new 48-inch panoramic view display which encompasses the entire width of the windshield and is not only the first time Lincoln has used this technology, but it also has the highest resolution ever offered on such a screen. This novel screen will focus heavily on working with driver assistance features such as BlueCruise. However, it can still display information like the weather, time, and other relevant information to the front passenger.
In addition to covering the core essentials, the company claims that Digital Experience will also reduce distracted driving by allowing occupants to put key apps they use within their line of sight and placing others into separate widgets and categories. In theory, this would reduce the need for the driver to look away from the road while also eliminating the need to remove their hands from the wheel with many of these features also being controlled by voice command prompts.
Third-Party Apps Come For The Ride Too
Along with Ford’s own internal apps, Digital Experience will also be open to third-party developers as well. Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and YouTube are only a small portion of what’s coming with Ford claiming that more of these apps are in the pipeline. Google Play games can also be equipped and the app even features Bluetooth connection for a compatible controller to improve gameplay.
When you’re not using your vehicle as a rolling game station, the Digital Experience system can also transform the equipped vehicle into an office via available video conferencing apps including Zoom. The 2024 Nautilus will be the only Ford or Lincoln model available with Digital Experience but look for the system to expand its reach to other Lincoln models first (the flagship Navigator SUV is definitely getting it when it’s due for an overhaul) with data and experiences gleaned from these applications being used to help smooth out the rough edges before it goes into select Ford models.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.