Over-the-Air Updates Add Functions to Millions of Vehicles

Making the most of their ability to deliver over-the-air (OTA) updates to a growing number of cars, automakers continue to add new features to the software of cars that are already in operation.

In BMW’s latest free Remote Software Upgrade, the automaker is adding or refining several features, some of which are functional and some of which are just for fun.

“[Digitalization] has shaped most people’s lives for a while now, and regular over-the-air updates have become a matter of course,” BMW said in a Wednesday (May 25) press release. “Updates deliver new features, greater security or enhanced usability for customers.”

Adding Functions Later, As Needed

Among the features to be added are the QlockTwo widget for the BMW iX, which displays the time in writing on the vehicle’s curved display; some refinements to the operation of the Lane Keeping Assistant, and BMW IconicSounds Electric for the BMW i4, which adds “engine sounds” for drivers who would like to hear them on this electric vehicle.

The upgrade will also extend to more vehicles like the BMW Personal eSIM, which enables owners to add their vehicle to their existing mobile phone plan so that they can make phone calls and stream data via the cars’ 5G with no phone needed.

The automaker said there are now 3.3 million BMW vehicles worldwide that are upgrade compatible and will be able to receive the software update.

“This increasingly gives customers the option of adding functions later, as needed, or activating them for a limited time,” BMW said in the press release.

Improving Vehicles Over Their Lifetime

Another luxury vehicle brand, Volvo, is expanding its production of vehicles equipped with OTA capabilities. The automaker announced May 4 that all new model-year 2023 Volvo vehicles, which will begin arriving at retailers this summer, will be capable of receiving and installing software upgrades remotely.

This capability will be delivered by an upgraded infotainment system that includes Google built into it, giving drivers access to the Google ecosystem through the car.

“As software updates are rolled out, each 2023 Volvo car is expected to continue to improve over its lifetime,” the automaker wrote in a press release.

Becoming Similar to Smartphones

In an OTA software update made available to owners in April, Polestar delivered drivetrain optimizations, digital key improvements and changes to improve the range of these electric vehicles.

The company reported it has released 10 major OTA upgrades with a total of 100 improvements, averaging one update every seven weeks. It also said more than 90% of the owners of Polestar 2 vehicles are installing the updates, adding new functionality, performance and personalization to their vehicles.

“Software technology in our cars should not be much different from how the latest software is pushed out on smartphones in everyday life,” Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath said in a press release. “With OTA updates, our customers receive constant enhancements without making a trip to a workshop.”