Updating GPS

Well it doesn't make any sense to me; but I dug into this and the reality is that Toyota's navi system is unique in the auto industry because it contains BOTH Navteq and TeleAtlas databases! So you get double-dipped for royalty costs. What a compelling notion!

Denso is compiling the data from both databases under the proposition that Navteq is better in major metro markets and TeleAtlas is better in rural areas. It also helps explain why the system is bloody slow because it's data constipated.

BTW: I do submit corrections to Navteq for data errors I find in their database to help improve their product. In exchange for my unpaid services, Navteq provides me an opportunity to pay for their royalties once AGAIN with my next map update. It is a sweet business model.

 

driving with Toyota's GPS requires the driver with basic intellegence

 

Any tips on getting the GPS software upgrade without paying Toyota's exorbitant fee? Also is the GPS software in the PIP Advanced unique because of split screen option, etc? Yes, I know most persons use their phone for such things these days....

 

I looked into this a bit after just getting my 12 PIP. It doesn't look like there's likely to be a good option. There was a YouTube video that says that the procedure is along the lines of buying a unique USB key, installing it, then getting a unique key from the entune system which you input into the Toyota or map company system to get a unique key to input into entune to authorize the upgrade. Didn't really look like a way to do it with any generic files or without dealer...

 

How much are dealerships asking?

 

A number of years ago I believe it was $169.

 

Don't know if it is available for your area or model year but there are offers on amazon and ebay starting at about $40 last time I checked.