A planned update of the Microsoft-powered Sync system offered in Ford vehicles will provide telematics services to drivers similar to those available through the General Motors OnStar service.

The additional features will be delivered through the driver's cell phone with only a limited amount of data passing through the voice channel. The data will be encoded with software from the same Seattle-based company, Airbiquity Inc., that supplies OnStar's "in-band modem" technology.

Services that will not be available as a result of this change include anti-theft measures and the tracking of stolen vehicles. These features are not possible as the driver's cell phones are not embedded in their cars to allow for GPS tracking. What will be gained are amenities like turn-by-turn navigation and concierge assistance.

The technology delivered by Airbiquity utilizes the computer chip in the driver's cell phone to identify the individual and to deliver information tailored to their specific needs.

Existing Sync users will receive a thumb drive from Ford that will deliver a software update through their system's USB port. Price information was not disclosed but typically Airbiquity has put per vehicle licensing for their software modem technology at $3 to $5.

Although the new features represent a collaborative effort, the services will be offered by Ford which will choose which specific telematics are available to their users.