BMW GB has begun its “biggest and most extensive remote software upgrade” ever following the German rollout starting 19 October.
The UK is included in a worldwide update of around 750,000 vehicles receiving updates to Operating System 7.
The upgrade includes new, expanded and enhanced functions, such as Maps, Google Android Auto and eDrive Zones.
The new software version is available to UK owners from November 2020 and can be downloaded to vehicles directly over the air and installed free of charge.
Customers will receive a push notification in their vehicle or via the BMW Connected App on their smartphone as soon as the upgrade is available.
Among the updates, BMW Maps is said to offer “an entirely new navigation experience”. Route calculation of the first cloud-based system is said to be significantly faster and more dynamic by combining real time information with forecast models. It also provides additional contextual information on points of interest, such as ratings, business opening hours and photos. Destination input has also been “significantly updated and is now easier and more intuitive to operate”.
Google Android Auto will be available as a new feature following the upgrade, allowing customers to use the functions of their smartphone in the car via a wireless connection instead of connecting by USB port and cable.
Owners can use Google Assistant or touch operation to access their apps without having to operate their smartphone directly.
Google Maps also shows navigation guidance in the instrument cluster info display and head-up display.
