I haven't been inside a Ford computer (but I have tuned others) but lots of them do readjust the timing.
And sometimes it can take time to get the full benefit.
They do have set "base" maps for timing...fueling usually stays the same, based on load vs. rpm. It gets trimmed both instantly (STFT) and then it slowly adjusts the long term trims (LTFT) to bring the short term trims closer to 0.
This is done based off the 02 sensor readings.
Timing has a modifiers in the ECU's I have been in. If it see's no knock it will move the modifier closer to 1 (100%). That means it will use 100% of the commanded timing for that load/rpm. The modifier never STARTED at 1 in the ECU's I tuned though. It starts lower and slowly (and safely) moves up...but it will drop instantly if it see's knock to prevent damage. It will also reduce boost as well if it needs to.
The modifier gets multiplied by the base timing to get the commanded timing. So if it below 1, you will get less timing than the max in the table.
That way, you can run at 87 and it will be fine, but if you use 93 it will creep up the timing (and power).
So, I would call that "learning". But maybe there is a better term. Manufactures all have slightly different strategies.
Not sure what ford's is, but I have seen dyno tests comparing 87 to 93 and showing gains. So it seems possible that there are changes made. Octane doesn't make any more power..but the ability to run more timing does.
You may not see a difference towing or around town, if you already had plenty of part throttle power. But you would see it flat out on the dyno or at the drag strip.
Also, it does not have any octane sensors...it doesn't KNOW the fuel you put in is 87 or 93. Although with flex fuel vehicles it can detect the change to e85 and such.
That requires changes to secondary fuel and timing maps.
Probably more info than some people wanted, but there it is. :)
