Recalls could be avoided if the necessary fix can be handled remotely through an easy software update. Additionally, the prospect of seamlessly adding new features and functionalities to a vehicle may also reduce its depreciation over time, as some features could be seen as adding value to the vehicle.įor carmakers there are obvious benefits, too. This is because today many features can in fact be managed digitally through these control units, which are in turn accessible by the carmaker remotely through a simple WiFi connection. For drivers, OTA software updates can mean that they will have a chance to maintain or fix vehicle software from the comfort of their own home, or any other place of their choice - potentially saving them costs and valuable time. This has widespread implications for both drivers and carmakers alike. This, in turn, allows for continuous upgrading by carmakers, who invest increasingly in software development, cloud and server infrastructure and implementation setups. Common to both, however, is that today they are integral, digitized components of modern car design and production standards. These computing units in turn can be divided into two main categories those that control infotainment systems and features like navigation assistants – and the more critical drive control units that control, measure and regulate basic driving functionalities like steering and braking. Long gone are the days when a car was an entirely mechanical creation. Generally speaking, a modern vehicle that comes fresh out of the factory will today be extensively powered by high performance computers and small control units. By now, over-the-air (OTA) software updates have become a regular feature for many modern carmakers, enabling them to fix, modify and even improve vehicles through various remote software update setups.īut what exactly does this mean? What is possible, and why does it matter? The answers, as is often the case when talking about the benefits of modern tech, are manyfold. No matter what, keeping up to date with the latest software releases has become an easy everyday task for most of us, as more and more digital devices find their way into our lives.Īs we move towards a more interconnected, and above all more digital mobile reality, software is becoming an everyday part of car ownership. Maybe you’re just getting a few bugs fixed, or maybe you’re looking at new features altogether.

A few taps and swipes, and in a matter of seconds you’re well underway to giving your device a much-needed facelift. You’re likely familiar with the scenario: a quick glance at your phone and a notification reveals that a new software update is available.

What is gracenote software