DEARBORN, MI – Ford stated in a news release that it's beta testing a new service called Operator Assist, as part of its SYNC Services, that allow users to talk with a live person to request directions or find a business.

Using a voice command, the Operator Assist feature is designed to allow a user to connect with live support when conducting a business search or looking for directions.

When a live operator helps with a business search, the individual making the request can choose to receive turn-by-turn directions to the business, receive a text message with the name, address, and phone number for the business, or call the company.

Ford said the live operator services are provided by a company called MyAssist.

The automaker said this service is currently complimentary and requires no new hardware or software installed to function.

Source: Ford Motor Co.