Ford rolling out Siri Eyes-Free to millions of older vehicles [Video]

Ford vehicles dating back to 2011 can now be updated with Siri Eyes-Free.

Ford is rolling out a new software update that will give owners of older vehicles access to Apple's Siri Eyes-Free voice-command system.

Ford announced on Thursday that it is now offering an update for Sync-equipped vehicles dating back to the 2011 model year that will incorporate Siri Eyes-Free functionality. The Sync update will cover about 5 million vehicles.

"SYNC, Ford's entertainment and communications system, was designed to be flexible and updatable, just like other mobile technologies, so our customers are able to get the most out of their smartphones while behind the wheel,” said Sherif Marakby, director, Ford Electronics and Electrical Systems Engineering. "Siri Eyes-Free is another great voice-activated feature that not only adds convenience but helps our customers keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.”

When paired with a newer iPhone, Siri Eyes-Free makes several of the virtual assistant's functions available at the touch of a button, including making phone calls, setting reminders, checking the weather, getting directions via Apple Maps, sending and receiving texts messages and playing music. Siri Eyes-Free can be activated by holding the factory voice recognition button located on the steering wheel.

Best of all, the update is downloadable from the Ford Website, meaning there is no need to make a trip to the dealer.