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.
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Obtain software updates from the BMW website.
On BMW’s software update website, you can look for the most recent ConnectedDrive software version for your vehicle if it has a more recent iDrive system or if it is an older vehicle with a factory-installed Combox.
BMW will check its records after receiving your VIN to see which software is already in your vehicle. If there is a newer version, you can download the file directly from BMW’s website (for example, upd07044 or UPD11024), which is prepared to be transferred to a formatted USB flash drive. FAT32 and exFAT are the proper BMW software update USB formats. Installing the software update requires inserting the flash drive into a USB port. Without needing to visit the dealer, you’ll then be able to connect a wider range of devices to your BMW and start using more multimedia functions in your vehicle.
BMW’s software update website will let you know if there isn’t a more recent version of the software available for your vehicle. In that situation, a straightforward software update won’t be sufficient to offer the functions you’re lacking.
How can I find the software version for my BMW?
All automobiles equipped with the BMW Operating Systems 7 and 8 qualify. Over 20 different BMW models total.
* Depending on the country, the vehicle’s model, its equipment, and its condition, different upgrades may have different requirements.
The hardware that is installed in your car determines whether it can receive the BMW Remote Software Upgrade. This is possible in almost all vehicles running BMW Operating Systems 7 and 8. If your car is one of them, you can quickly and easily find out. To accomplish this, choose “My Vehicle” > “Settings” > “General Settings” > “Remote Software Upgrade” from the vehicle’s menu. Use this feature if “Remote Software Upgrade” is shown.
Your BMW will always be up to date thanks to this free software update. A BMW remote software upgrade may come with new functions, functional upgrades, and quality improvements. Depending on the country, the type of vehicle, its equipment, and its state, the material may change.
You will receive a push notification as soon as new software for your BMW becomes available via the Control Display in your car or the My BMW app on your smartphone, if you have it installed. You may access the upgrade in the app or on your BMW to see what information is being updated or new features are being introduced. Make sure your car is securely parked and won’t be utilized for the next 20 minutes before the upgrading begins. Installing the upgrade is as simple as following the directions on the Control Display.
You have two options for downloading the latest software with the BMW Remote Software Upgrade: either through the My BMW app or automatically while you’re driving directly through your vehicle SIM. You will be asked to confirm the installation of the new software and to launch it after the download is finished.
The entire installation and upgrade process only takes about 20 minutes once the download is complete (length depending on your internet connection or network coverage while driving). Your vehicle is not operational during the installation. Before your subsequent journey, you will be alerted that the upgrade was successfully installed. You can now go back and view the upgrade’s contents if you like.
Due to hardware limitations, the BMW Remote Software Upgrade is factory installed; a subsequent purchase is not feasible.
What is the most recent BMW iDrive version?
16 December 2021, Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey BMW customers are already receiving the most recent technological advancements with iDrive 7. Updates to the BMW News app featuring podcast-based news, the most recent Remote Software Upgrade (version 21-07), and the addition of SiriusXM’s Pandora channels are among them.
How can I tell whether my BMW requires an upgrade?
Find the VIN for your vehicle. You’ll require it to check and see if your specific model has any updates available. To check for any necessary upgrades, enter the VIN here. Download any updates that are accessible on a USB drive.
How can I upgrade the system in my BMW?
Through the My BMW App, you can also do a remote software upgrade. The My BMW App is an application that connects your Apple or Android smartphone with your vehicle and is a part of the BMW Connected Drive package. You may preset locations before getting into your car, adjust the heat, unlock your doors, and even download a Remote Software update via Wi-Fi.
The My BMW App software upgrading instructions are as follows:
- The Remote Software Upgrade menu can be found by opening the app.
- Select the “Wi-Fi only” download option under Remote Software Upgrade options.
- Click “Start download” to begin.
- After the download is finished, pair your phone with your car via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
- Verify your connections under the ‘Mobile devices’ option of your iDrive settings.
- Select “new device” to set up a Wi-Fi connection.
- Choose “Internet, applications.”
- Use your phone to scan the QR code.
- A Wi-Fi token will be sent to you, which you must accept in order to create the connection.
- While you’re traveling, the software update will be uploaded once the Wi-Fi connection is established.
How much does updating BMW software cost?
Your BMW service adviser most likely recommended a $250 full system software upgrade, which can take a few hours to complete. Three times a year, these updates are made available.
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 did the BMW Connected app fare?
Customers in the United States will be able to download the My BMW App on April 12, 2021, for use on iOS and Android-compatible mobile devices; the My BMW App will completely replace the BMW Connected app by the end of June 2021. Since 1975, BMW of North America, LLC has operated in the United States.
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.
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.
How can I get free map updates for my BMW navigation system?
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.
What does a BMW’s IDrive do?
The BMW vehicle control system is the subject of this article. IDrive Inc. is the name of the internet storage company. To learn more, go to iDrive (disambiguation).
Most auxiliary vehicle systems are managed by the in-car communications and entertainment system known as iDrive in late-model BMW vehicles. It debuted with the 2001 launch of the E65 7 Series. A control knob situated on the center console and an LCD panel mounted in the dashboard make up the system’s single control architecture, which unifies a variety of functions.
The climate (heating and air conditioner), music system (radio and CD player), navigation system, and communication system can all be managed by the driver (and, in some versions, front-seat passengers).
Due to Rolls-ownership Royce’s by BMW and the fact that Toyota and BMW collaborate on the Toyota Supra, which will be available starting in 2019, iDrive is also employed in contemporary Rolls-Royce vehicles. A condensed version of iDrive, known as Connected, is offered on certain vehicles because Mini is owned by BMW.
When does BMW ConnectedDrive end?
Select automobiles will no longer be able to offer ConnectedDrive services starting in February 2022 due to cellular providers’ phase-out of the 3G network. The choice to discontinue use of 3G network technology was made at the discretion of the individual cellular carriers and is outside of BMW’s control.