Future Ford Vehicles Could Get Modular Interface For Screens, USB Ports

Ford Motor Company has filed a patent for a modular interface for screens and USB ports that may be used in future Ford vehicles, Ford Authority has learned.

The patent was filed on September 21^st, 2023, published on March 27^th, 2025, and assigned serial number 0107026.

The Ford Authority Take

Ford has explored the idea of adding a handful of modular features to its future vehicles in recent months via patent filings for ideas including modular infotainment displays and interchangeable AC outlets – concepts that could prove quite appealing for consumers that appreciate a bit more flexibility in terms of ways to use those features. Now, this newly published patent keeps that trend going, this time, with a new idea for a modular interface for screens and USB ports that may be used in future Ford vehicles, too.

Screens are becoming more and more prevalent in modern vehicles, taking over traditional analog displays such as instrument clusters, and that trend doesn’t look likely to stop anytime soon. These digital dashes are appealing in that they offer an array of different ways users can configure them to their liking, but this patent introduces us to a new idea that aims to take that concept to another level.

Here, Ford proposes adding various docks to the interior of vehicles that can accommodate modular programmable widgets, along with USB power for screens. This way, it – or users – could move those things around within the inside of a vehicle to better suit their needs or taste. It’s an interesting idea for certain, and even if it doesn’t come to fruition, it’s clear that Ford is focused on making its future models more modular and customizable in various ways.

“Submitting patent applications is a normal part of any strong business as the process protects new ideas and helps us build a robust portfolio of intellectual property,” Ford said in a statement. “The ideas described within a patent application should not be viewed as an indication of our business or product plans. No matter what the patent application outlines, we will always put the customer first in the decision-making behind the development and marketing of new products and services.”