Google Earth ending December 2020 for 2018 models or older

**Caryt** · 09-20-2020 07:03 AM

Same here..both of mine are in perfect condition and I have no reason to ever get another Audi..
Wish some member who's a lawyer with time and $ would start a class action suit.

Count me in...

**frankjcrow** · 10-06-2020 03:11 PM

Today on the Audi Connect disclaimers page, I read:

Connect CARE services are subject to technologies remaining commercially available, and such service is not guaranteed, and may not be available after December 2021 for equipped MY17-19 vehicles.

It sounds like maybe more things than just Google Earth are going to go away from the interface potentially. Seems pretty shady that a MY19 that -- at this point -- is less than a year old, already has significant features scheduled to go away. I get that it says "may not" (rather than "will be going away") but just the thought of that being possible before an entire year had gone by kind of sucks TBH.

**AudiNaziNein** · 10-07-2020 02:33 PM

Does anyone know what part of the car purchase terms and conditions gives AUDI the right to modify the function of the car's hardware? MY17 Q7 simcard slot stopped working, MY19 S5 also does not work.

TBH my jokingly calling Audi "the car nazis" isn't so funny anymore.

**Audibot** · 10-07-2020 02:46 PM

Originally Posted by AudiNaziNein

Does anyone know what part of the car purchase terms and conditions gives AUDI the right to modify the function of the car's hardware? MY17 Q7 simcard slot stopped working, MY19 S5 also does not work.

TBH my jokingly calling Audi "the car nazis" isn't so funny anymore.

I suddenly stopped getting WiFi in the car. I suspected the sim card, but then I found an email saying my Audi Connect subscription had ended. I didn't know they were going to suddenly end it. I haven't renewed it because I feel like with Google Earth ending at the end of the year, why would I pay $5 more per month for less service?

**rgobantes23** · 10-09-2020 04:09 PM

I have not checked this thread in a while. Vincenzo did not respond to my question and I understand he is no longer here.

In December 2019 Audi updated the software on my 2018 Audi SQ5 during the year 2 service. Google Earth reference no longer appears in the satellite map overlay and instead the overlay now states the map is from "Maxar Technologies, a USDA Farm Service Agency." Maxar Technologies provide data to Google Earth. The big question is since Google Earth is no longer mentioned anywhere in the MMI, is the Maxar Technologies overlay permanent?

My Audi Connect Prime subscription will also expire in December. I have been using the Prime subscription for the satellite map overlay and the free twice a year over the air navigation map update. Without the satellite map overlay I will not renew my subscription.

I will ask Audi USA the question above on Facebook and will update this thread when Audi USA responds.

**AudiNaziNein** · 10-11-2020 10:54 AM

Audi Connect may be the best way to reward a third party for catching an STD and nothing else. Money for almost nothing.

Take it back Audi, bring back the "sudden accelation syndrome" it served us better.

**rgobantes23** · 10-16-2020 05:24 PM

Originally Posted by rgobantes23

I have not checked this thread in a while. Vincenzo did not respond to my question and I understand he is no longer here.

In December 2019 Audi updated the software on my 2018 Audi SQ5 during the year 2 service. Google Earth reference no longer appears in the satellite map overlay and instead the overlay now states the map is from "Maxar Technologies, a USDA Farm Service Agency." Maxar Technologies provide data to Google Earth. The big question is since Google Earth is no longer mentioned anywhere in the MMI, is the Maxar Technologies overlay permanent?

My Audi Connect Prime subscription will also expire in December. I have been using the Prime subscription for the satellite map overlay and the free twice a year over the air navigation map update. Without the satellite map overlay I will not renew my subscription.

I will ask Audi USA the question above on Facebook and will update this thread when Audi USA responds.

Audi of America has responded to my Facebook question an hour ago. Audi said, "....Google Earth will not be continuing in the Audi vehicles. That being said, I'm able to confirm that the maps will continue to be provided by Maxar Technologies. However, after January 1, the copyright may change." I am unsure if Maxar maps will work on pre-virtual cockpit models as Audi of America only responded to my specific vehicle.

**BerkoBoy** · 10-20-2020 06:29 AM

Originally Posted by Audi USA

Hello everyone,

I'd just like to make some clarifications so we're all on the same page moving forward. The standard map/navigation views will still be available as they are now, there will just not be any 3D views or Google Streetview available based on the software changes made by Google. As of right now Audi does not have a hardware or other similar upgrade that can be made available for MY18 and older vehicles to include the Google Earth functionality. Please feel free to send me a PM on this topic if you have additional questions.

I will also be using this thread as a measuring stick for feedback, as I know this is disappointing news.

Thank you kindly,

SO I bought a 2018 A5 Sportback with the MMI/Virtual Cockpit, primarily for the Google Earth/Streetview features that I thought was worthy of the $2900 selling price. Now, I am going back to an effective digital version of NOTHING?! This is beyond infuriating! Audi should have. worked with Google on an API or some technical fix to allow cars 2018 and earlier that have this feature to retain this feature. This is really a crap move on Audi's part - NOT engineering a car for extensibility. My advice - figure out what is needed and allow those who own the affected vehicles to update/upgrade at NO COST to the owners - you know, cuz Audi's are so inexpensive to begin with.

- - - Updated - - -

Originally Posted by Audi USA

Hello everyone,

I'd just like to make some clarifications so we're all on the same page moving forward. The standard map/navigation views will still be available as they are now, there will just not be any 3D views or Google Streetview available based on the software changes made by Google. As of right now Audi does not have a hardware or other similar upgrade that can be made available for MY18 and older vehicles to include the Google Earth functionality. Please feel free to send me a PM on this topic if you have additional questions.

I will also be using this thread as a measuring stick for feedback, as I know this is disappointing news.

Thank you kindly,

So I bought a 2018 A5 Sportback with the MMI/Virtual Cockpit, primarily for the Google Earth/Streetview features that I thought was worthy of the $2900 selling price. Now, I am going back to an effective digital version of NOTHING?! This is beyond infuriating! Audi should have. worked with Google on an API or some technical fix to allow cars 2018 and earlier that have this feature to retain this feature. This is really a crap move on Audi's part - NOT engineering a car for extensibility. My advice - figure out what is needed and allow those who own the affected vehicles to update/upgrade at NO COST to the owners - you know, cuz Audi's are so inexpensive to begin with.

**rgobantes23** · 10-20-2020 01:39 PM

Originally Posted by BerkoBoy

SO I bought a 2018 A5 Sportback with the MMI/Virtual Cockpit, primarily for the Google Earth/Streetview features that I thought was worthy of the $2900 selling price. Now, I am going back to an effective digital version of NOTHING?! This is beyond infuriating! Audi should have. worked with Google on an API or some technical fix to allow cars 2018 and earlier that have this feature to retain this feature. This is really a crap move on Audi's part - NOT engineering a car for extensibility. My advice - figure out what is needed and allow those who own the affected vehicles to update/upgrade at NO COST to the owners - you know, cuz Audi's are so inexpensive to begin with.

- - - Updated - - -

So I bought a 2018 A5 Sportback with the MMI/Virtual Cockpit, primarily for the Google Earth/Streetview features that I thought was worthy of the $2900 selling price. Now, I am going back to an effective digital version of NOTHING?! This is beyond infuriating! Audi should have. worked with Google on an API or some technical fix to allow cars 2018 and earlier that have this feature to retain this feature. This is really a crap move on Audi's part - NOT engineering a car for extensibility. My advice - figure out what is needed and allow those who own the affected vehicles to update/upgrade at NO COST to the owners - you know, cuz Audi's are so inexpensive to begin with.

As per my post above, Audi has found a solution by having Maxar Technologies provide the satellite navigation map overlay (MMI and virtual cockpit) for vehicles with active Audi Connect accounts. Google Maps on Android Auto (and I assume Apple Carplay) now provides free satellite navigation maps and they can be used on your MMI but NOT on your virtual cockpit. If you don't have Maxar maps yet, ask Audi Service to update your navigation software during your next visit.

***Stubek*** · 10-20-2020 03:54 PM

Just a reminder that Audi USA is not monitoring this forum at this time.
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...erience-Update

**JBAeroEngineer** · 10-20-2020 08:16 PM

Originally Posted by rgobantes23

As per my post above, Audi has found a solution by having Maxar Technologies provide the satellite navigation map overlay (MMI and virtual cockpit) for vehicles with active Audi Connect accounts. Google Maps on Android Auto (and I assume Apple Carplay) now provides free satellite navigation maps and they can be used on your MMI but NOT on your virtual cockpit. If you don't have Maxar maps yet, ask Audi Service to update your navigation software during your next visit.

Is there a specific TSB to reference?

**AudiNaziNein** · 10-20-2020 09:00 PM

Originally Posted by Stubek

Just a reminder that Audi USA is not monitoring this forum at this time.
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...erience-Update

Kevin, I beg to moderately and respectfully disagree with that statement. Audi is listening/monitoring but not engaging.

Funny, almost every company is surfing the Covid Wave. 12 million people unemployed in the US, at home, yet they can't find anyone to work for them from home.

Last week I called Audi customer service: "would you like to do the covid wait for 39 to 46 minutes or call you back? Call me back save me the wait." On the call back I waited over 7 minutes to speak with someone that does not know a thing about a SimCard slot on a 2017 Audi Q7. So many technology experts at the Dealer and Audi Connect customer disservice people on the phone but no one knows how the damn box works or who turned the lights out. To be fair the former does not know the latter does not care.

**rgobantes23** · 10-21-2020 08:00 AM

Originally Posted by JBAeroEngineer

Is there a specific TSB to reference?

This is a good question and I don't know the answer. During my second year service I asked Audi Service to update the camera software (camera was reverting to standard view; 360 view setting was not staying in memory). After the service I noticed the map has changed from Google to Maxar, and the camera glitch was fixed as well.

When my sister bought her 2020 Q3 October of last year the vehicle already had Maxar maps so it looks like Audi has phased out Google Maps altogether. Audi's response to my Facebook follow-up question included, "....the satellite map will not disappear, we simply will not be moving forward with Google Earth." I am glad Audi has found a permanent solution for my vehicle. The virtual cockpit on my three year old SQ5 is not yet obsolete.

UPDATE: I asked Audi USA on Facebook if there is specific TSB for the map update and received, "....reach out to your preferred Audi dealer (service) as they're in the best position to discuss this information."

**engmoto** · 10-23-2020 02:01 PM

Originally Posted by rgobantes23

This is a good question, and I don't know the answer. During my second year of service, I asked Audi Service to update the camera software (the camera was reverting to standard view; 360 view setting was not staying in memory). After the service, I noticed the map has changed from Google to Maxar, and the camera glitch was fixed as well.

When my sister bought her 2020 Q3 October of last year the vehicle already had Maxar maps so it looks like Audi has phased out Google Maps altogether. Audi's response to my Facebook follow-up question included, "....the satellite map will not disappear, we simply will not be moving forward with Google Earth." I am glad Audi has found a permanent solution for my vehicle. The virtual cockpit on my three year old SQ5 is not yet obsolete.

UPDATE: I asked Audi USA on Facebook if there is specific TSB for the map update and received, "....reach out to your preferred Audi dealer (service) as they're in the best position to discuss this information."

Interestingly, I have a 2017 S3 I brought in 18, and today, my Audi connect subscription expired. However, I purchased service through Feb 2021. Tech is working that issue, said it's be at least 72hours. This is the second time since my last service, which was at 50K. I also noticed after that service there was an update for the MMI that would not download. Customer service informed me that my vehicle was no longer supported at that time, and today the representative told me google maps would no longer available. My response was, I guess my car is officially old. The reps aren't recommending a visit to the dealer for an update; they just tell me the platform is no longer supported. This is extremely disappointing, to the point where I'm don't think I'll buy another Audi.
I was seriously considering a 2021 S5, but if this is Audi�s plan for its in-car tech, I'd instead go to another brand that will offer support through the life of the vehicle; I wouldn't be so butt hurt if connect was free, if there's a subscription fee, there should be updates and support until there are no more subscribers.

**ManyAudis** · 10-23-2020 05:37 PM

Originally Posted by JBAeroEngineer

Is there a specific TSB to reference?

I can confirm that MAXAR satellite imagery is being used on 2019 A4's (my new car) which have the same hardware as the 2017's and 2018's. One of the members on another forum was told by Audi he could take his 2017 in for a firmware upgrade to enable MAXAR imagery on his car. This should be a no-cost upgrade. No, I do not know the TSB.

**rgobantes23** · 10-23-2020 07:55 PM

Originally Posted by engmoto

Interestingly, I have a 2017 S3 I brought in 18, and today, my Audi connect subscription expired. However, I purchased service through Feb 2021. Tech is working that issue, said it's be at least 72hours. This is the second time since my last service, which was at 50K. I also noticed after that service there was an update for the MMI that would not download. Customer service informed me that my vehicle was no longer supported at that time, and today the representative told me google maps would no longer available. My response was, I guess my car is officially old. The reps aren't recommending a visit to the dealer for an update; they just tell me the platform is no longer supported. This is extremely disappointing, to the point where I'm don't think I'll buy another Audi.
I was seriously considering a 2021 S5, but if this is Audis plan for its in-car tech, I'd instead go to another brand that will offer support through the life of the vehicle; I wouldn't be so butt hurt if connect was free, if there's a subscription fee, there should be updates and support until there are no more subscribers.

If the 2017 S3 is a virtual cockpit model, the Maxar satellite overlay should work and should not take 72 hours to update. You need an active Audi Connect subscription to get satellite map overlay on your virtual cockpit. If the 2017 S3 is not the virtual cockpit model you can use Google Maps on Android Auto (or Apple Carplay) to get free satellite map overlay on your MMI, but it will use data on your cell phone service.

Also with the map update, there is a change on how navigation works on the virtual cockpit. If you are using another navigation software on your MMI (and driving to a destination) via Android Auto or Apple Carplay, the virtual cockpit will no longer show a map and instead it will show a plain compass. I guess the purpose is for the driver to only see one navigation map at a time.

**engmoto** · 10-24-2020 06:44 AM

So I have a problem, I reach out to he dealer today. Thanks for the reply.

**Ddixon487** · 10-26-2020 08:27 PM

Originally Posted by JBAeroEngineer

Is there a specific TSB to reference?

2060681-1 is the one I got from the Audiconnect folks.

Sadly, I've given to multiple dealers and they aren't showing this as a valid TSB at the moment.

Can anyone with an 18 model confirm if the MAXAR imagery works post update?

**Group_B** · 10-27-2020 06:07 AM

Originally Posted by Ddixon487

2060681-1 is the one I got from the Audiconnect folks.

Sadly, I've given to multiple dealers and they aren't showing this as a valid TSB at the moment.

This is the correct number according to my dealer. However, they are not permitted to install it unless the customer has a current Audi Connect subscription.

**rgobantes23** · 10-27-2020 06:27 AM

Originally Posted by Ddixon487

2060681-1 is the one I got from the Audiconnect folks.

Sadly, I've given to multiple dealers and they aren't showing this as a valid TSB at the moment.

Can anyone with an 18 model confirm if the MAXAR imagery works post update?

I have a 2018 SQ5 and the Maxar satellite overlay works just like the Google Earth overlay. No issues. Attaching a pic of the virtual cockpit with Maxar satellite overlay. Some may not like the copyright text of the Maxar map but Audi did say copyright will change January 1st so hopefully the new text will be shorter and smaller. I can't complain about the text. I am happy the satellite overlay will continue.

It seems Audi service updated the software of my vehicle without me asking for it. I was initially thinking the map update was connected (same software update) with the camera views of my vehicle. I did have an active Audi Connect in my vehicle when Audi service updated it. Maybe there will be a new update January 1st since copyright is changing.

**Ddixon487** · 10-27-2020 08:34 PM

That's really helpful Group_B and rgobantes23...thanks for the info.

Calling the dealership in the AM.

**E-SWIFT** · 10-28-2020 11:16 AM

So in December, there will be no more internet and google map overly for all audi's ?
What is this Maxar overlay and it only available with a update from the dealer ?

**rgobantes23** · 10-28-2020 04:08 PM

Originally Posted by E-SWIFT

So in December, there will be no more internet and google map overly for all audi's ?
What is this Maxar overlay and it only available with a update from the dealer ?

Google Earth satellite overlay will no longer be available January 1, 2021 for MY 2018 or earlier. From my email correspondence with Audi of America, Maxar satellite overlay will replace Google Earth satellite overlay for virtual cockpit models. A software update from a dealer (service) is required for the map replacement, unless your vehicle already has Maxar maps. Some may have not noticed that the dealer updated their map software from Google to Maxar when they went in for service the past year or so. The dealer updated my map software in December 2019 (2nd year service) without me asking for it. I am not sure if Maxar satellite overlay is available for pre virtual cockpit models. You will also need an active Connect Prime (aka Audi Connect) account to get satellite overlay on your virtual cockpit.

**rgobantes23** · 10-28-2020 04:14 PM

Originally Posted by frankjcrow

Today on the Audi Connect disclaimers page, I read:

It sounds like maybe more things than just Google Earth are going to go away from the interface potentially. Seems pretty shady that a MY19 that -- at this point -- is less than a year old, already has significant features scheduled to go away. I get that it says "may not" (rather than "will be going away") but just the thought of that being possible before an entire year had gone by kind of sucks TBH.

Connect Prime (satellite overlay, traffic, TLI, parking info, etc.) is different from Connect Plus (wifi/data) or Connect Care (remote services & emergency support). I also get free over the air map update with Connect Prime. Audi said (Vincenzo from a different thread) the first five map updates will be free. Audi issues map update twice a year. If you miss an update it still counts as part of the five.

I am glad they found a solution for the satellite overlay. Hoping Audi will find a solution for Connect Care.

**anupgangwar** · 11-05-2020 02:04 PM

I started a thread with Audi regarding Maxar Technolgies maps in my 2018 Q7, they have not responded to it yet. The original question was regarding Google earth which they reverted to and said that it is unsupported. I had recently also renewed my Connect Prime for 1.5 years, the fact that it continued to say that your Connect subscription has expired, prompted me to start the thread with Audi.

Anyone here has had success with getting Audi to update a Q7 to Maxar Technologies maps?

Thanks.

**rgobantes23** · 11-06-2020 04:58 AM

Originally Posted by anupgangwar

I started a thread with Audi regarding Maxar Technolgies maps in my 2018 Q7, they have not responded to it yet. The original question was regarding Google earth which they reverted to and said that it is unsupported. I had recently also renewed my Connect Prime for 1.5 years, the fact that it continued to say that your Connect subscription has expired, prompted me to start the thread with Audi.

Anyone here has had success with getting Audi to update a Q7 to Maxar Technologies maps?

Thanks.

I think I saw someone posted that Audi no longer responds to questions on this website after Vincenzo's departure. That is why I asked Audi USA on Facebook (Facebook Messenger) and someone responded to my questions quickly. I don't know if the Audi thread you have mentioned is on this website or another.

**cameraz** · 11-06-2020 08:35 AM

Originally Posted by rgobantes23

Google Earth satellite overlay will no longer be available January 1, 2021 for MY 2018 or earlier. From my email correspondence with Audi of America, Maxar satellite overlay will replace Google Earth satellite overlay for virtual cockpit models. A software update from a dealer (service) is required for the map replacement, unless your vehicle already has Maxar maps. Some may have not noticed that the dealer updated their map software from Google to Maxar when they went in for service the past year or so. The dealer updated my map software in December 2019 (2nd year service) without me asking for it. I am not sure if Maxar satellite overlay is available for pre virtual cockpit models. You will also need an active Connect Prime (aka Audi Connect) account to get satellite overlay on your virtual cockpit.

Two weeks ago my Audi Connect subscription expired, and my Google Earth Overlay disappeared. So I went online, paid $199, and renewed my subscription. However, my GE overlay never returned. I called Audi Connect, and the rep said that the overlay was scheduled to disappear at the end of the year, but "Germany made a mistake" and cancelled it early. The rep told me that all I had to do was go to my dealership and ask them to update my MMI, and the overlay would come back.

I asked if my dealership would give me hard time about updating my MMI, and he said, "No. They already know all about this." To make a long story short, however, the dealership did update the MMI on my 2017 B9, but was unable to get the overlay because it "is no longer supported" in my car.

The Google Earth overlay was one of my favorite features of my car, and was the first thing passengers noticed when they got in. The "cool factor" cannot be underestimated.

I always believed I would trade up to a new Audi -- as I have for the last 16 years -- but I seriously will be taking a look at other brands for my next car.

**anupgangwar** · 11-09-2020 08:53 AM

Thanks. Audi has been silent on my chat+email thread with them. Will reach out over Facebook messenger.

I bought my leased vehicle on the same day the first response to my Google Earth question came from Audi. Had they responded earlier, it would have affected my decision to purchase the vehicle.

**TWhaylen** · 11-12-2020 08:55 AM

So I am currently involved with the possible purchase of a 2017 A4 Premium Plus. I see that the Google Earth feature will be gone here soon. My question just to clarify from all that has been posted, will I still be able to have the maps and navigation feature on the cockpit display without the Google Earth overlay? I just really love that feature and would hate for even the maps and navigation part to go away as well. Thank you for any clarification.

**cameraz** · 11-12-2020 09:30 AM

Originally Posted by TWhaylen

So I am currently involved with the possible purchase of a 2017 A4 Premium Plus. I see that the Google Earth feature will be gone here soon. My question just to clarify from all that has been posted, will I still be able to have the maps and navigation feature on the cockpit display without the Google Earth overlay? I just really love that feature and would hate for even the maps and navigation part to go away as well. Thank you for any clarification.

The regular maps will stay. My Google Earth overlay has disappeared, but I still have the regular maps on both my MMI and Virtual Cockpit. I don't know if you would have them on both places without an Audi Connect subscription ... somebody else will have to chime in here.

**TWhaylen** · 11-12-2020 09:41 AM

Originally Posted by cameraz

The regular maps will stay. My Google Earth overlay has disappeared, but I still have the regular maps on both my MMI and Virtual Cockpit. I don't know if you would have them on both places without an Audi Connect subscription ... somebody else will have to chime in here.

Thank you so much for the speedy response. Actually, when I test drove it yesterday, it DID show the regular map on both the cockpit display and the MMI at the same time.

**OrionR9** · 11-13-2020 03:31 AM

Originally Posted by rgobantes23

Google Earth satellite overlay will no longer be available January 1, 2021 for MY 2018 or earlier. From my email correspondence with Audi of America, Maxar satellite overlay will replace Google Earth satellite overlay for virtual cockpit models. A software update from a dealer (service) is required for the map replacement, unless your vehicle already has Maxar maps. Some may have not noticed that the dealer updated their map software from Google to Maxar when they went in for service the past year or so. The dealer updated my map software in December 2019 (2nd year service) without me asking for it. I am not sure if Maxar satellite overlay is available for pre virtual cockpit models. You will also need an active Connect Prime (aka Audi Connect) account to get satellite overlay on your virtual cockpit.

So AoA told you any models with virtual cockpit will support the new Maxar overlay regardless of the model year? I�m trying to find out if my 2018 A4 will get this with a software update. What�s the production date of your SQ5?

**rgobantes23** · 11-13-2020 06:21 AM

Originally Posted by OrionR9

So AoA told you any models with virtual cockpit will support the new Maxar overlay regardless of the model year? I�m trying to find out if my 2018 A4 will get this with a software update. What�s the production date of your SQ5?

AoA responded only about my specific vehicle after they asked for the VIN. AoA did say satellite overlay is not going away and it is just they are not moving forward with Google Earth. My SQ5 was ordered from a dealer with my specs. The production week assigned was week 47 of 2017 and production was completed on November 22, 2017.

**OrionR9** · 11-13-2020 11:55 AM

Originally Posted by rgobantes23

AoA responded only about my specific vehicle after they asked for the VIN. AoA did say satellite overlay is not going away and it is just they are not moving forward with Google Earth. My SQ5 was ordered from a dealer with my specs. The production week assigned was week 47 of 2017 and production was completed on November 22, 2017.

Thanks for your reply. I ordered mine as well and it was built in July 2018. Assuming our cars have the same MMI components, I�m very hopeful that I won�t lose satellite overlay in 2021.

**rgobantes23** · 11-18-2020 03:58 PM

I received this official email from Audi USA/Audi Connect Team yesterday. The email included a button to schedule the service for the software update. I hope everyone received it as well.

---------------
Dear XXXX,

We hope you�re enjoying your Audi SQ5 3.0T quattro Tiptronic and all of your Audi connect1 services. In 2012, Google and Audi came together to offer an industry first, Google Earth2 imagery as part of our navigation systems3. The technology that Google uses to deliver Google Earth images is constantly evolving and updating. As of December 31st, 2020, Google Earth will no longer be compatible with the current hardware in your vehicle.

Your vehicle is eligible for a software update that will allow you to continue to use satellite imagery on your navigation system. The update will be covered as part of the vehicle�s limited warranty. If your vehicle is no longer under warranty, you have the option to purchase the update. Please call your local Audi dealer to schedule a service appointment to receive this software update.

Please be aware, if you do not complete this software update, your vehicle will lose satellite imagery effective December 31st, 2020 or on the date of your next Audi connect subscription renewal. The 2D/3D standard map images, navigation, and traffic services will continue to function. Other Audi connect services that may be available in your vehicle, like remote lock/unlock4, internet radio, parking information5, fuel information6, and weather updates will also remain available.

If you have any questions, please call our Customer Experience Center at 1-800-822-AUDI.

Sincerely,

The Audi connect Team

**Caryt** · 11-19-2020 08:18 AM

Nope...never received but I have a '16 and 17. Both are out of the factory warranty. The Q7 still is under the CPO. A6 still covered under the TDI warranty.
Billion dollar company just pissing away their reputation by not fixing this issue.

**AudiNaziNein** · 11-19-2020 07:01 PM

The real question is about the value of Audi Connect. AC is an expensive product Amazon would have called free information in a "frustration full" package. A 10% value and 90% waste of money. Nothing discussed so far presents a threat to AoA. No threat no action required. What I have been trying to post for weeks now is a real threat that I do not see anyone else discussing. What I have submitted twice as a new post is as follows:

2017 Audi Q7 MMI - Sim Card Slot stopped working

Full disclosure before you read on, I am old, old enough to have driven both an NSU Prinz and R80 on the other side of the pond. My comments should be taken with a heavy dose of salt and not just the usual pinch. My love for the brand started after driving a friend's Audi Quattro in the late '80s in Europe. If I did not think highly of the brand I would keep my mouth shut and move on.

When a customer reports to AoA that an Audi vehicle is changing its operational behavior without outside interference you'd think the "Dieselgate Masters" would be paying attention. Please stay with me and let me first explain before you call me what my wife often does; crazy.

For about two years now we had been using a data-only sim card to create a hotspot in a 2017 eSIM equipped Audi Q7. The network status was correctly indicating T-Mobile as the provider. About two months ago the MMI display switched to indicating AT&T as the provider and the sim card slot had now been disabled. I say disabled because the Dealer tested the hardware and found it to be working properly.

Contacted Audi CS and they reassured me that only a Dealer can make hardware changes. Audi wants me to keep chasing the answer by going through the dealer again. When I asked CS to find the answer internally and call me they said I had to go back to the dealer. Their answer reminded me of the "soup Nazi" pointing to the exit and saying "back to the Dealer for You" completely disregarding I had just come from the Dealer. Circles, circles, and more circles, they should try that on an emblem.

I did my part, informing both the dealer and Audi CS that based on the facts in my estimation the eSIM was activated over the air disabling the sim card slot. I asked for a face to masked-faced socially distanced in-person meeting with the district rep; still waiting. As someone who has managed product development, I know answers are easy to find in a well-organized operation, I find it hard to believe Audi AG is not just that. So, since no one had touched the Q7 is the change attributed to Dieselgating or Sudden Hardware Acceleration? Namely, is Audi making it happen or am I just confused? History teaches as the customer is not always right and allowances must be made.

Thank you Audi for not including an eSIM in the V8 RS5, I'll go for some rev-therapy before the snow forces me back in what appears to be your Q7 and not ours.

So simple, some idiot just turned out the lights, just point them out, even if that idiot is me.

**anupgangwar** · 11-23-2020 08:00 AM

Same here, never received such email. However, finally did receive the following from Audi:

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hello Mr. XYZ,

I am following up with you in regard to your 2018 Audi Q7. I apologize for the delay in response.

Regrettably, Audi will not be in the position to install the Maxar Technologies satellite maps on your MMI. As for the shutdown there is no new Hardware available but other Audi Connect features will be available.

I apologize for the inconvenience. Mr. XYZ. If you should need any future assistance, you may contact Audi Customer Experience Center at +1 800 822 2834.

Kind regards,

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Pretty annoying to say the least. They simply say *too old* for a 2 year old vehicle!

**911 Flavors** · 11-24-2020 07:27 AM

Just went to the dealer - my 2019 RS5 is not eligible for the update. So I have lost Google Earth and Maxxar won�t work in my car because my software version is too old (the car was manufactured in July of 2018 and it is a 2019 model year). Audi has probably lost me as a future customer (and I have had a number of Audis in the past). Luckily my Audi Connect subscription expires in January of 2021 - I will save a few $ by cancelling it.

**anupgangwar** · 11-24-2020 08:29 AM

They have lost me too for any future purchases. I was having a fairly intense exchange on facebook messenger with them and communicated the same to them. There was a standard response that we have communicated the frustration internally!

Thread: Google Earth ending December 2020 for 2018 models or older

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