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.
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.
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 to Install BMW’s Biggest Remote iDrive Software Upgrade
The largest remote upgrade to the Series 7 software, which debuted in 2018, is currently being applied. With almost 750,000 of the premium brand’s vehicles receiving new and improved features, it is also the largest in BMW history.
Owners can confirm and begin the download sequence by going to the Car menu on the iDrive screen, selecting Settings, followed by General Settings, and then Remote Software Upgrade.
The driver still needs to manually initiate the update by following the earlier-described methods. This can also be done via smartphone, which enables the setup to be ready the next time the car is used by downloading the installation files in advance.
When making this upgrade, the vehicle must be parked, with the engine off and the parking brake engaged. Owners should therefore confirm that those requirements are met and that they won’t use the vehicle for at least the following 20 minutes.
It’s convenient because they can lock the car and drive away. They may quietly study the specifics of the new features and extended capabilities offered by the largest software update ever released by a European automaker as they unwind, sip a coffee, and watch as their gorgeous automobile is upgraded.
BMW plug-in hybrids can now automatically transition to pure electric driving mode when they approach a green zone, which has been established in over 90 European cities, thanks to the new eDrive Zone digital service. This stands out as a special service in the car sector and demonstrates BMW’s dedication to environmental awareness.
By determining the driver or passenger’s orientation and adding new voice commands for opening windows, changing drive modes, and requesting specific fuel-saving advice, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant will be able to determine when it is not being spoken to.
The navigation experience is a crucial component of any car’s system. The destination entry in BMW Maps has significantly improved and is now simpler and more user-friendly.
With its cloud-based system, which can give real-time traffic forecasts and contextual information like restaurant ratings and images or charging station opening hours, it also benefits from a speedier connection.
Based on information from nearby BMWs that might vacate, the Connected Parking driver assistance now predicts the likelihood that a spot will become available in addition to displaying where parking is available.
Another improvement enables the system to compute and take into account the actual size of the car and compares it upon arrival to the available parking place and its surroundings.
Finally included in the updates is Google Android Auto, which enables users to sync their smartphones and use Google Maps, Assistant, or other phone apps right from the iDrive screen.
Apple Maps now includes turn-by-turn directions and lane information that are directly presented in the Head-up Display and Info Display.
Today, 20 minutes is a long time for an update, but keep in mind that we’re talking about cars here, and after looking at the improvements and new features, we can comprehend and appreciate the significant upgrade BMW has implemented.
It became available to German clients last week, and will soon be made available in additional European nations, the United States, Canada, and the remaining regions.
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.
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
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.
When did BMW first release iDrive?
BMW introduces the iDrive in 2001. The 2001 BMW 7 Series featured the first BMW iDrive. The BMW iDrive was the brand-new control system that BMW introduced. The amount of buttons on the dashboard were drastically reduced when it was first introduced in the BMW 7 Series.
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!