The loss of RTTI (Real-Time Traffic Information) in connected (e.g. BMW) vehicles due to the 3G sunset is primarily caused by the discontinuation of 3G cellular networks by mobile carriers, which directly affects manufacturer's connected services. Read on for a solution if RTTI and other connected services stop working.
What happened?
2G and 3G Network Shutdown: Mobile carriers globally phased out 2G and 3G networks to make room for newer technologies like 4G and 5G. Connected vehicles that relied on older (eg 2G/3G) telematics hardware lost connectivity to services like RTTI, BMW Assist, Remote Services, and more.
Hardware Limitations: Many connected cars built before 2017 were equipped with 3G-based telematics units. According to manufacturers, these units can't be upgraded to 4G due to hardware and software constraints. Read on if RTTI and other connected services stop working for a solution!
No Retrofit Path: Many connected car manufacturers (e.g. BMW) have not foreseen a retrofit or upgrade path for most affected vehicles. This means owners of older models can't renew connected services offered by the car manufacturer once 3G support ends.
What is the solution or alternative?
Navituning has proven that statements of BMW regarding cellular sunsets are unnecessary, inaccurate and most of all customer unfriendly. For many BMW models, 4G compatible telematic units (TCU) are available world wide which proves BMW (aftersales) isn't totally honest regarding cellular sunsets. And in case a 4G telematic unit isn't available, most of the ConnectedDrive services can be restored via paired mobile phones.
Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) can be easily restored/retrofitted for all BMW models with navigation system professional delivered from mid-2012 (Canada) with at least (factory) options 609 and 633/6NS/6NH.
