BMW Deploys Remote Software Upgrade Across Models Featuring Operating System 7.0

There’s no doubt that Tesla changed the auto industry in many ways and its over-the-air updates are probably the most spectacular of all.

The simple idea of having your car “magically” fixed or upgraded without anyone physically working on it would have been the stuff of sci-fi movies but nowadays is slowly becoming standard practice.

BMW is the latest automaker to jump on the over-the-air updates bandwagon although the company uses a different name for the service — Remote Software Upgrade. The automaker has just announced that all BMW Group vehicles equipped with Operating System 7.0 will be updated at all times with Remote Software Upgrade.

Also read: BMW Previews Its New Digital Instrument Cluster And Infotainment System

Available with immediate effect, the feature keeps the vehicle up-to-date and is as easy as updating a smartphone, according to BMW. The first upgrade, already available from today successively in all BMW ConnectedDrive markets, includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, whose functions can now be expanded automatically and conveniently over the air.

The additional functions of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can be activated for models including the new BMW X5, new BMW 3 Series and new BMW 8 Series with BMW Operating System 7.0.

BMW says the Remote Software Upgrade offers vehicle-specific content and updates including adding extensions to driver assistance systems — such as Active Cruise Control and side collision protection. Future upgrades will unlock additional vehicle functions from the BMW ConnectedDrive Store.

Depending on the car’s specification, Remote Software Upgrade will enable owners to activate additional functions from their home, via smartphone or from inside the car itself.

According to BMW, future Remote Software Upgrades “will regularly expand and improve the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant’s skills,” free of charge. These cyclical updates will include software adaptations and function extensions.