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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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.
BMW demonstrates how to get software for iDrive 8 via OTA update.
With the 2001 release of the E65 generation 7 Series Sedan, BMW introduced the original iDrive, widely recognized as the forerunner of what we now refer to as an entertainment system. After 20 years and seven iterations, Operating System 8 was released in March of this year and is presently supported by the iX, i4, and 2 Series Active Tourer models.
It only seems fitting that the German luxury brand has now published a video instruction specifically for its most recent infotainment, as more and more new BMWs are moving to the newest hardware and software. In essence, it is a tutorial that shows you step-by-step how to download new software from an over-the-air update. It will soon be unnecessary to visit your local dealership to stay current on the newest apps thanks to the deployment of OTA modifications.
The process begins on your smartphone, as the business will send a push notice to the My BMW app notifying owners of vehicles with the iDrive 8 system about the recently released software. The method for the iX electric SUV is demonstrated here, but it will essentially be the same for other current and upcoming cars with the newest infotainment. The speed of your phone’s Internet connection and the size of the package will determine how long the download takes.
After the download is finished, you can pair your smartphone with the vehicle using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to transfer the software to the infotainment system. The transfer will be immediately uploaded to the vehicle while you’re driving once the connection has been made. Since the transfer to the iDrive 8 will automatically pause and then begin the instant the smartphone is connected to your BMW once more, losing the connection won’t be a problem. The procedure can potentially be stopped.
The driver will then receive notification once the entire software package has been transferred about when it is able to successfully install the upgrade. According to BMW, this can only be accomplished when the vehicle is “not in ready-to-drive mode.”
Which models will be the next to receive the iDrive 8? Similar to the 3 Series LCI and the production model of the XM plug-in hybrid SUV, the brand-new 7 Series (G70) will also have it. With the facelifted 3er likely receiving it, the first-ever M3 Touring production model probably will as well. They are all expected to arrive in 2022.
What steps do I need to take in order to update my BMW iDrive or ConnectedDrive at home?
Place the USB thumb drive inside your car’s USB port. On most models, this is located underneath the arm rest. Start the car’s ignition.
Select “Update Software” under “Software Update.”
Choose “Install Software.”
There will be a software update. Be patient; it could take up to 15 minutes to complete. Keep your car stationary until the upgrade is finished. Continue to follow the on-screen directions.
Updates to BMW iDrive are possible?
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.
What version of BMW iDrive is currently in use?
In 2021, BMW announced the BMW Curved Display and the 8th iteration of iDrive. The following BMW cars feature iDrive 8.0: BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
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 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!
Can I get a technological upgrade for my BMW?
Nearly the entire BMW fleet—more than 30 BMW models—can now be upgraded remotely. Until the interim version has been downloaded and installed, vehicles with software older than version 20-07 cannot install the most recent version.
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.
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.
Is a 4G upgrade available for my BMW?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a technical upgrade for your car that would let you keep using ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist services until your contract expires, or after February 2022, whichever comes first.
How can I set up an update for iDrive?
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.”
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.
Can my BMW be equipped with Apple CarPlay?
With firmware beginning with iOS 7.1, Apple CarPlay(r) Preparation is available for all iPhone devices starting with the 5. You must have the optional additional ConnectedDrive Services, which include BMW apps, in order to utilize Apple CarPlay(r) Preparation in a BMW vehicle. Additionally, your BMW must be outfitted with Navi Professional.