At the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) currently underway in Las Vegas, Microsoft announced its intent to take on key aspects of the functionality of General Motor's OnStar service with upgrades to the Sync system used by Ford.

Currently available in a dozen models under the Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury brands, the Sync system by Microsoft allows voice control of telephones and MP3 players.

The system enhancement, 911 Assist, automatically makes a call to 911 when it detects airbag deployment, provided the driver of the car has a phone that uses Bluetooth wireless connectivity.

Drivers who have a current Sync system will be able to visit a dealership to receive a free software upgrade to gain the 911 Assist capability.

The OnStar system employs sensors that contact a response center in the event of a crash at which time an employee speaks with the driver and contacts 911 if necessary. The 911 Assist cuts out the middleman and puts the driver directly in touch with emergency services.

Another new feature of this generation of the software also allows drivers to request Sync to generate diagnostic information about the performance of their vehicle that is sent directly to Ford for analysis and suggested service options.

In addition to these software upgrades, Microsoft also announced its intention to make the company's Auto 3.0 software available to suppliers who want to develop systems for other carmakers. Currently Auto 3.0 is the platform for the Ford Sync system and Fiat's Blue and Me.