In Canada, the 3G network is being phased out by major mobile carriers, with a sunset date of July 31, 2025. This means that devices relying solely on 3G technology will lose their cellular connectivity after this date. Carriers like Rogers, Fido, and Vidéotron will discontinue their 3G services on July 31, 2025. Bell and Telus are also expected to sunset their 3G networks by the end of 2025. This has caused that BMW Canada (Part of BMW AG) removed support for BMW ConnectedDrive cars which depend on sunsetted/inactive (eg 2G/3G) cellular networks. BMW is generally avoiding global consequences of the phasing out of 2G/3G mobile network technologies, as the company states that it has no control over this situation without looking at itself.
BMW ConnectedDrive Services and Apps rely on the embedded SIM card in your BMW and certain vehicles require connectivity via a 3G mobile network operated by third party telecommunications providers. The Mobile Network Operators (“MNOs”) providing 3G services in Canada plan to retire their 3G services by 31 July 2025.
As a result, BMW ConnectedDrive Services and Apps will be impacted on certain vehicles, and will ease to function for reasons beyond BMW’s control. [1].
There is currently no available hardware or software alternatives which extend the functionality beyond the 3G shutdown for affected vehicles. [1].
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.
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