iDrive software updates are only necessary in a few few circumstances. For instance, updating your software can be the solution if you wish to use a particular function but it isn’t supported by the current software version of your car (for instance, full-screen mode for Apple CarPlay). It might also be the answer if you experience problems with third-party hardware that isn’t made to operate with earlier iDrive software versions.
Your BMW almost never requires a software update if there is no specific problem that has to be fixed or no clear aim in mind.
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BMW Software Update: Please download the update and use a USB stick to transfer it to your BMW.
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According to the mobile devices, there may be a wide range of compatibility between mobile devices and your BMW’s vehicle interfaces (Bluetooth(r), USB, or WiFi). Your smartphone or tablet’s hardware and software components will determine compatibility.
Industry-wide communications standards serve as the foundation for all BMW features. Lack of support for a standard by your mobile device could result in functional limitations. It might not always be possible to use your smartphone or tablet through the in-car interface. There may be periodic disturbances in exceptional circumstances. The size of the phone book, the SIM card being used, the individual network operator, different rules, or the mobile device’s operating mode are all potential contributing factors.
Please be aware that each country may have a different level of function availability. BMW is unable to bear responsibility for your mobile device’s unrestricted compatibility and functionality with car interfaces.
The Bluetooth SIG, Inc. is the registered owner of the Bluetooth word mark and logos. A license agreement governs all of the BMW Group’s use of the marks in this manner.
the use of a USB drive
If your car lacks a Combox, you can download the update to a USB drive and insert it into the armrest’s USB port to install it. Look for the Software Update option under Settings in iDrive. After that, simply follow the instructions on the screen.
It is quick and simple to learn about updates and to install new software for a minor update. To ensure that you always have the most recent and up-you-date information, make sure to finish an update whenever BMW releases one.
How can my BMW iDrive be updated?
Download any updates that are accessible on a USB drive. Place the USB drive into a USB port on your car. Select “Settings” from the menu on your iDrive device. Follow the instructions that appear on the screen after clicking “Software Update.”
Can you update the software for BMW?
Benefit from ongoing compatibility with BMW Software Update. Keep up with the most recent developments by using your VIN to check for updated software that is accessible for your BMW and any connected mobile devices.
How can I tell if the software in my BMW is current?
How will I be informed when an upgrade is ready? Similar to when other new software is made available to your phone, any newly available update packages will be instantly announced as a notification on your BMW control display or on your smartphone via the BMW app.
What version of BMW iDrive is currently in use?
In 2021, BMW announced the BMW Curved Display and the 8th iteration of iDrive. BMW offers iDrive 8.0 on the following models: Active Tourer BMW 2 Series
How can I download apps to my BMW?
Learn in this video how to use your My BMW App to download and install a Remote Software Upgrade. The process is as follows:
1. Your My BMW App notifies you via a push notice when a new software update is accessible for your BMW.
2. To save money and time, we advise using Wi-Fi to download the software upgrade.
3. In the mobile devices menu of your BMW, check your connections and pair your phone with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
4. To connect to Wi-Fi, select “New device,” “Internet, apps,” and then use your smartphone to scan the QR code.
5. As you drive, the upgrade is now uploaded to your BMW.
Follow the installation instructions on the Central Information Display once the upload is finished.
Anytime the connection between your smartphone and your car is re-established and the engine is running, the upload procedure will immediately resume. Please see the installation process in our other How-To video.
How can I get a free map update for my BMW?
Several times a year, changes to the maps are released. They are offered in the BMW Shop as a one- or two-year subscription. If you have a current subscription, you can use the BMW Update Manager to obtain the most recent refresh from the BMW Connected Drive portal and update your map data. You’ll need a 64GB FAT-32 formatted USB drive and the methods below to accomplish this.
- First, use the icon in the site top to connect into your My BMW Account. Go to “My Vehicles” by navigating.
- Choose the vehicle for which a map update is desired.
- Go to the “Map update” section. If a new map version is available, a notification will appear.
How much does a BMW iDrive repair cost?
I’ve been wondering how much it would cost to upgrade to the newest IDRIVE, so I’ve been giving it a lot of thought. I want to upgrade to a new 2012 or 2013 IDRIVE with all the bells and whistles, but I’m not sure if it will be worthwhile.
Basic CIC idrives with maps, voice control, and video in motion cost between $2200 and $2500; occasionally, a backup camera can be included in that price.
On my 2008, I’ve been meaning to upgrade as well. a full cic with combos, a front pdc, and a rear camera was desired. Like the OP said, it has all the bells and whistles.
Please also PM me. I have a 2008 M3 and would really like the new CIC with the new controller, buttons, etc., Bluetooth playback for an iPod or Droid phone, new maps with a high-resolution screen, and a backup camera would be a good addition.
Any information you can give me regarding this refit would be greatly welcomed and useful. Alekshop said I would only need to drive to the dealership to have the software updated. TECH, if I installed the entire system myself, what tuning is required afterward.
You would need to get in touch with me outside of the forum since I’m no longer a merchant here.
I have a 2010 CIC system, but I don’t have internet access, sound streaming Bluetooth, or any BMW apps. I believe all I would need to upgrade to this level is a combox.
Do you market and code the combox? I’m attempting to put up one for the wife’s 2010 E70 2010 X5 with coding. Can you send me any information via private message? thanks!
How can I tell what model of BMW iDrive I have?
The iDrive system’s navigation is a crucial component that makes getting from A to B simple. But since roads and sites of interest constantly change, it’s critical to maintain your BMW’s GPS maps updated if you want to get the most out of your iDrive.
Many of the most recent BMW models include over-the-air (OTA) map updates, which use the vehicle’s integrated SIM card to automatically download the most recent map data. The procedure in these automobiles is comparable to updating your smartphone to the most recent iOS or Android version; all you have to do is restart your car after your iDrive has downloaded the data.
For vehicles that do not allow OTA updates, a manual upgrade is necessary. Previously, updating BMW navigation maps required changing a DVD holding the map data. More newer vehicles include built-in hard drives that hold the data, allowing you to update your map by overwriting the hard drive’s contents. You can accomplish this with BMW by connecting a USB stick with the updated map data to the USB port in your vehicle.
It’s a good idea to determine which map version you need, which relies on your iDrive system, before purchasing a new BMW map. Use the settings menu when your iDrive navigation is open to navigate to “Navigation system version,” where you can see the region, version, and year of your current GPS data.
How can I find the firmware version for my BMW?
Download the My BMW app on your phone and look under the Vehicle Status / Service / Remote Software Upgrade menu to see if your ID7 has the most recent software version.
How is software updated?
- Ensure that your gadget is Wi-Fi enabled.
- Launch Settings.
- Choosing About Phone.
- Select Check for Updates. An Update button will show up if an update is available. Tap it.
- Install. You might see Install Now, Reboot and install, or Install System Software, depending on the OS. Tap it
Can you update iDrive yourself?
Installing the software update is no more difficult than updating your navigation’s map, whether you acquire it straight from BMW or us. Simply load the file onto a USB memory stick or other thumb drive, insert it into the armrest USB port, and access iDrive’s Settings menu. Find the Software Update option in the menu, then adhere to the on-screen directions.
Simple to understand. One more concern remains, though: what if you use a BimmerTech upgrade kit to install a Combox or NBT Navigation and BMW later releases a crucial main software update? Not to worry. Simply take out the Combox/NBT before bringing your BMW in for an upgrade. When you receive it back, install it again. Contact our IT staff if it has to be recoded, as it occasionally does, and we’ll have it working again in no time.
If they choose to retrofit NBT EVO with ID5/ID6 into their BMW, Apple aficionados will also be thrilled by the ability to install Retrofit Carplay in an older BMW.
Which BMW models come with iDrive 8?
For its 2022 model lineup, BMW is prepared with its summer model update, which features a new infotainment system as standard equipment for the 2 Series Coupe and the M3. Starting in July of this year, all versions of the performance coupes will come equipped with the company’s iDrive 8 technology as standard. Although there are further improvements deserving of attention, let’s start with the new curved displays.
Though the decision makes a lot of sense, it may seem a little surprising that BMW would give the two models such a significant tech upgrade without either changing the generation or giving them a facelift. The new M2 and M3 Touring, both of which have the new iDrive 8 system confirmed, will be released soon by the automaker. The mid-cycle upgrade is simply explained by the fact that it would have been strange for the cheaper 2 Series Coupe versions and the basic M3 sedan to continue using the previous-generation infotainment.