I logged into my Ford account and clicked through to navigation updates. It takes me to a page that says, “The latest Sync 3 map will be available on or near August 14th, 2023. Please check back then.” Anyone else seeing this? Think they’ll charge us for it?

 

No idea - we don't know what you're driving. New trucks come with 2 free updates I think. After that, you have to pay for a subscription to get updates. It's on the nav update web site.

 

Its no charge...or has been.

But go ahead and try and update the Ford windows 3.1 archaic system...it will be 8 hours of your life you'll never gat back and the system still won't be updated! lol...

You know whats really easy to update? Google maps on my phone!!!

 

I've given up on the Ford navigation. It couldn't find its own butt if it used both hands. Like Stu said use google maps and if your smart phone is plugged into the USB port, you'll have the map on your screen.

 

Mine works great, but with annual updates, if you're looking for a business by name and its status has changed recently, or you don't know the exact name, you may not find it. I tend to use the truck nav for longer road trips to major locations or specific addresses, and the phone for very local trips where I'm searching for a business name.

There was a time when I thought in-vehicle navigation would have gone away by now, replaced completely by smart phone apps or standalone GPS, but obviously it has an audience. I think it's going to evolve toward near-real-time map updates over WiFi to be competitive.

 

The couple quick times I used my Navigation, it was not accurate with current construction (although Google maps is). I did an update, downloaded to flashdrive, plugged in on a long trip I took (as it can't be interrupted). To the OP, I do not know if they will charge you or if you need it. If you like it, try it and let us know. For me, the single most disappointing thing I added when I ordered my truck. That said, wifes new bmw, navigation sucks the same, although her phone connects with Google maps without having to plug in the umbilical cord.

 

I'm hoping this Sync 3 Maps update is also an OTA update for the Sync 3 software...been dealing with the stupid memory issue/prompts all year. Haven't been bothered enough to wipe the memory yet since I always use Android Auto anyways.

 

Most vehicle navigation systems use software and mapping from a small number of third-party providers, so they all have a lot in common and tend to look/work the same. Ford's mapping provider for both your truck and FordPass app is Here Technologies, and they have a phone app available called Here WeGo.

 

Merely posting this so those that are interested in a map update would know it may be on it's way. Not looking for another debate on the merits of Ford navigation vs handheld.

But for those that are curious, I prefer Ford because it (i) keeps my phone out of my hand, (ii) lets me see the radio station and map at the same time and (iii) tells me how long my trip took once I arrive at my destination (sometimes interesting to those of us that have a commute). With that said, there are certainly downsides to Ford vs. Google/Apple. I get other people have other preferences and I'm not trying to convince anyone of anything.

 

The updated Android Auto now has split screen that shows your maps and audio at the same time. You can make either one full screen if needed. As far as getting the new maps for free on the factory navigation, I use Cyanlabs, it's always worked perfect for me. https://cyanlabs.net/applications/syn3updater/