Volvo Cars has started rolling out what it calls its largest over-the-air (OTA) software update so far, bringing a new in-car interface to around 2.5 million vehicles across 85 countries including the UK.
If you like the idea of your car feeling newer without changing the car itself, this is exactly that.
First things first: what is an “over-the-air” update?
An OTA update is when your car downloads new software via its data connection, a bit like your phone updating overnight.
So instead of booking a workshop visit for every improvement, many updates can arrive automatically while the car is parked.
What’s new: Volvo Car UX
The new interface is called Volvo Car UX. Volvo says it’s designed to be faster, simpler, and more intuitive, with fewer taps needed to get to the things people use most.
The big changes focus on day-to-day usability:
- A cleaner home screen with your most-used apps and controls (think maps, media, phone) front and centre.
- No more bouncing out of navigation to do basic tasks. For example, if you’re using Google Maps and want to change music, you can do it without leaving the map view.
- A new contextual bar that adapts to what you’re doing, and can surface things like the camera icon at low speeds for tight manoeuvres.
In short: the screen layout is being reorganised around how people actually drive and use the car, rather than making you dig through menus.
Who gets the update (and is it free)?
This update is for Volvo models with Google built-in (Android Automotive OS). Volvo says customers with eligible cars built as early as 2020 will receive the upgrade free of charge.
Volvo’s “small print” also lists a wide range of eligible models (depending on market and model year), including: C40, XC40, EX40, EC40, S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, XC60, S90, V90, V90 Cross Country and XC90 (with the Android operating system).
A couple of practical notes:
- OTA updates require an active data connection.
- If a car hasn’t been kept up to date, some customers may need to visit an authorised Volvo service centre to get back onto the latest software track (which may involve a fee).
- Availability can vary by market and model year.
Plug-in hybrid drivers get a handy shortcut
If you drive a Volvo plug-in hybrid, Volvo says the update makes it easier to use the electric side of the drivetrain.
You’ll get Drive Modes on the home screen, with “Pure” mode easier to reach, making electric-only running a one-tap choice instead of a menu hunt.
Pilot Assist: a new “download later” option
Volvo also says it will begin offering some customers (those with Google built-in, but without Pilot Assist) the ability to purchase and download Pilot Assist to their car.
That’s a shift towards “features on demand”, where you can add certain driver assistance functions after you’ve taken delivery (eligibility will depend on the car).
Google Gemini is on the horizon too
Volvo says this update also prepares cars for Google Gemini, with Gemini expected to arrive for eligible cars later this spring.
Why this matters if you’re leasing
For lots of drivers, the best tech is the tech that stays fresh.
A big OTA rollout like this is good news because it means:
- Your car can improve during your lease, not just on day one
- The cabin tech can feel more current for longer
- Familiar Volvo usability can become more consistent across models and model years
- If you’re considering a Volvo, or you’re comparing premium SUVs and estates, it’s worth factoring in how often the brand updates its in-car software, not just the spec sheet.
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