BMW's Latest Software Update Adds Cool Features To 4.7 Million Compatible Models

Jan. 20, 2023 2:58 PM ET byKarl Furlong Technology /2 Comments

Remote control parking and a Personal eSIM for AT&T customers in America are just two of the highlights.

BMW has announced a significant remote software upgrade for around 4.7 million cars using iDrive Operating Systems 7 and 8, adding a host of new comfort, safety, infotainment, and driver-assistance features that weren't previously available. This will keep the latest BMWs up to date before iDrive 8.5arrives later this year.

It's become customary for manufacturers to release several software updates per year. BMW already announced abig one in October last yearthat added features like new skills for the Intelligent Personal Assistant and Amazon Alexa integration.

As with other software updates, the latest one is free, and 30 BMW models will benefit. The first change relates to the BMW Digital Key, a feature that was recently improved to beshared with Android devicestoo.

With the software update, the BMW Digital Key can be activated directly in the vehicle by simply entering an activation code. Before this, the normal key had to be located in the cabin.

For certain countries, Remote Control Parking will be introduced whereby owners can remotely park their cars by standing outside the vehicle via the My BMW App. The car can be remotely parked forwards or backward within a radius of nearly 20 feet, be it lengthways or crossways. This feature can also be used with the Maneuvering Assistant, whereby previous maneuvers that are recorded can be called upon again.

Next, AT&T customers in the USA can now use the Personal eSIM. For BMWs with iDrive 8, the Personal eSIM enables 5G connectivity. With this, customers can stream data using the Wi-Fi hotspot, use video services directly in the vehicle, and make calls without the smartphone needing to be in the car.

Beyond these updates, there are also a few model-specific upgrades. For theiXelectric SUV, it's now more convenient to stop charging and unlock the charging cable lock, as this can be done using the My BMW App. The iX, X1, and Active Tourer (not sold in the USA) now receive active steering assistance when reversing with a trailer, but only if the optional Parking Assistant is fitted.

Select models like the 20227 Seriesand 2022 X1 will feature the latest My Mode "Digital Art" once the remote software upgrade is complete, and X7 customers in the USA and Canada can now see a modern light graphic of the direction indicator. These changes aren't as useful as the Personal eSim or active steering assistance, but they're little reminders that you've got access to the best tech that the brand currently has to offer.

The status of the software can be viewed in the settings menu of applicable BMWs, which is also where available upgrades can be found. To make customers' lives a bit easier, it's impossible to install the wrong software version, as only the next new upgrade will ever be available.