If you’ve been waiting (and waiting…) for that elusive BYD OTA software update, you’re not alone. Since getting my car, I haven’t received a single OTA update — but that doesn’t mean there haven’t been improvements available.
Below are several updates you can install right now that don’t rely on OTA. They’re often overlooked, yet they can make a noticeable difference to your driving and infotainment experience.
The Usual: OTA Updates (or Lack Thereof)
For most owners, OTA (Over-the-Air) updates are the main way to get new features or bug fixes. You can check manually by going to your Software Version menu and tapping Update.
If there’s no update available, it will simply say so — like in my case, where the last update was back in December 2024 (version 2412). But here’s the thing: OTA isn’t the only game in town.
1) Navigation & Map Updates
BYD’s navigation system has its own update process, independent of OTA:
- Open the navigation screen and tap the Settings (bolt) icon.
- Scroll down to USB Map Update and Map Management.
- Under Map Management, look for maps marked Updatable, then download.
I’ve updated my Singapore map twice this way. You can also download maps for other countries (e.g., Malaysia, the Philippines) as long as you have enough free storage. After downloading, you’ll be prompted to restart the navigation to apply changes.
2) BYD Store App Updates
The BYD Store occasionally has app updates that don’t depend on OTA. When an update is available, you’ll see Update instead of Open or Install. Tap it to refresh the app.
Important: You’ll need an internet connection via phone tethering; the car’s onboard SIM typically won’t download BYD Store updates.
3) BYD Assistant Voice Updates
BYD Assistant (voice control) also receives updates:
- Open BYD Assistant settings.
- Go to Voice Language.
- Download/update the language packs shown.
After my last update, I noticed a significant improvement in recognition accuracy. It didn’t add new commands, but it got much better at understanding what I was saying.
Bonus: GBox App Updates
If you’ve installed GBox, it can update apps independently as well. Open GBox, tap the menu (top-right), and you’ll see available updates. I don’t use GBox much these days since many of my most-used apps (like YouTube) are now native, but it’s still worth checking occasionally.
Final Thoughts
While OTA updates may be infrequent, these map, BYD Store, voice assistant, and GBox updates roll out more regularly — and they can keep your BYD feeling fresh. If you’re impatiently waiting on the next big OTA, explore these options and see what’s new; chances are you’ll find at least one improvement you can apply today.