Ford has added a new social media app to its Sync AppLink to let drivers use voice-control to listen to messages from social media sites like Twitter and LinkedIn.

The app has been designed to make it easier for drivers who wish to use social media while on the move, to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

The Meople.Connector app, is available for iOS and Android devices.

Don Butler, Ford Connected Vehicle and Services executive director, said: “For many people today, social media is fundamental to staying up-to-date and informed.

“From a reminder that it’s a friend’s birthday, to hearing the minute your football team scores a goal, to breaking news, social media is part of the fabric of modern life. By adding further news and personal communications, we are helping to ensure customers can stay seamlessly connected throughout their day in a safe and stress-free way.”

After drivers are alerted to messages, they can then use voice commands to “Read”, “Answer”, or “Skip”, the message. Should they choose to respond to the message, they can do so using pre-determined messages, which can be customised by the user. Drivers can select how often updates are received, and to send their current location to friends, family and colleagues.