Google Earth ending December 2020 for 2018 models or older

[disappointed]

I am starting to enjoy Google Earth on the MMI and virtual cockpit but I have just learned that Google Earth will stop functioning on 2018 models or earlier by the end of 2020. I wish I would have known this information before I ordered my 2018 SQ5. I could have waited 8/9 months for MY19 and will receive the latest MMI/virtual cockpit hardware and the black optics package.

I have a 2018 SQ5 on order and found this information out on my own, although too late of course, largely through forum posts like the above.

When I was shopping, it seemed that the Google Earth Virtual Cockpit was the single most prominent advertising, marketing, and sales pitch feature for this particular vehicle. At no time was it made clear that this feature would definitely be gone in approximately two years.

While waiting for delivery, I asked the dealer about this issue, and they have confirmed the above.

I most definitely would have waited for Model Year 2019 instead, had I known before ordering.

Hello rgobantes23,

Yes, you are correct Audi vehicles were initially manufactured to support Google Earth, but Google has since created a new software update in which the hardware in older vehicles will no longer be compatible with. Audi has taken steps to manufacture hardware that is compatible with the new software in MY19 and newer vehicles, but MY18 and older will no longer be able to use the Google Earth functionality as of December 31, 2020. I apologize for the inconvenience as I know this is frustrating, but please let me know if there's any other questions.

Thank you,

Yes, "frustrating" is one way to describe it.

Not cool, definitely not cool

Yes, I agree.

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,

No retrofit. Just "sorry" on a brand new $60k+ vehicle.

Yes, "disappointing" is another good description.

I know how you feel Cyttorak and Rapture. I am also very disappointed with Audi. In 2016 I needed a new vehicle and waited for the all new 2018 SQ5 model so that I'll have the latest platform and technology. A couple of months after delivery I find this news. I also found the older threads after I saw the bad news but I guess I was not researching Google Earth during the wait for the new SQ5 model. I am surprised none of the early 2018 SQ5 reviews (or current) mentioned the outgoing VC and MMI equipment even though the issue is old news. I am basically new to Audi but my SQ5 will probably be my last Audi vehicle because of how badly Audi managed phasing out the older VC and MMI equipment.

Yes, I too am surprised that none of the many reviews I read and viewed happened to mention this rather important issue.

All I can recommend is keep the conversation going here and more importantly, express your disappointment with AoA customer support (email, phone, snail mail, social media) and your local Audi dealer when you are in for service.

It's easy to ignore the forums where it is mostly a small group of enthusiasts, but if customer support (and social media) is getting flooded with complaints, they are more likely to act.

I intend to be relentless with my numerous MMI issues (Google Maps, Carplay, software update availability, general media playback issues, etc) while I still own this car and/or until my issues are resolved.

I have expressed my disappointment directly with my Audi dealer, to all of the car enthusiasts that I know, and most recently have now joined this forum solely to comment here in this thread.

Thank you to the Audi representative above for being aware of, and responsive to, our comments on this issue. Is there another way that we should provide more feedback ?

[rgobantes23]

I have a 2018 SQ5 on order and found this information out on my own, although too late of course...

Did you sign a contract or make a big down payment? My dealer did not ask me to sign any order contract. They did not even cash my small order down payment and they only ran my credit after I gave my credit info (after my SQ5 reached the US port). If I found this issue before delivery I would have been willing to lose my small order down payment to avoid the 2018 SQ5 purchase although I probably could have canceled or put a hold on the order down payment.

I also don't blame Vincenzo on this issue. He did not decide to do this. Although I encourage him to keep sending our disappointment messages to AoA management maybe AoA will listen and try to do a fix for Audi vehicles with VC.

I feel betrayed by Audi. I even purchased another small Audi vehicle while waiting for the all new 2018 SQ5.

[easy_button]

Vincenzo,

You imply in your response that the hardware cannot support the new Google Earth format which will be required after 2020. There are a lot of technical people on this board, myself being one of them and perhaps if Audi could provide a technical reason why this cannot be done it would go a long way towards appeasing the owners. For example, if Google is changing the programming interface in a way which would make it prohibitive or impossible to continue using Google Earth that might be an acceptable reason. I did some searching on the Google Earth interface and I cannot find any notice of changes that far in the future but perhaps Audi gets notifications from Google well in advance of the public.

The ”technical” reason this is happening is that Google is trying to sell its own product (Android Auto enabled head unit). The best way to force auto makers hand is to disable specific products that people like on non Google hardware. Audi did not do this, they just got played; wonder why Audi announced last year they were switching to Android Auto? Now you know... and no, Google doesn’t warn companies (or customers) they are about to screw...

[rgobantes23]

The ”technical” reason this is happening is that Google is trying to sell its own product (Android Auto enabled head unit). The best way to force auto makers hand is to disable specific products that people like on non Google hardware. Audi did not do this, they just got played; wonder why Audi announced last year they were switching to Android Auto? Now you know... and no, Google doesn’t warn companies (or customers) they are about to screw...

I find it hard to believe Google did not warn Audi. They must have a contract in place.

[JohnEnglish]

Google does stuff like this all the time with little to no warning. It's why you don't base critical business functions around any of their products.

[easy_button]

I find it hard to believe Google did not warn Audi. They must have a contract in place.

Really? How many versions of Android are out in the wild? Does the newest version run on a two year old device? Find it harder to believe that anyone would expect an Android device to be updated to a build optimized for to be delivered hardware... You want to blame Audi because Google is being Google - pretty sure they did “warn” them (after they sold half a million cars). Probably went something like this “... just a heads up, we are changing Maps in 2020 and it will only work with head units starting to ship next fall... your customers flip cars every two or three years, right? Maybe they won’t notice.” Where do you think “fsck Google” came from?

[rgobantes23]

Really? How many versions of Android are out in the wild? Does the newest version run on a two year old device? Find it harder to believe that anyone would expect an Android device to be updated to a build optimized for to be delivered hardware... You want to blame Audi because Google is being Google - pretty sure they did “warn” them (after they sold half a million cars). Probably went something like this “... just a heads up, we are changing Maps in 2020 and it will only work with head units starting to ship next fall... your customers flip cars every two or three years, right? Maybe they won’t notice.” Where do you think “fsck Google” came from?

Confident what you're saying is true? You saw the contract between the two companies and were part of their discussions? It was Audi's risk and they knew "Google is Google" before they took the risk. Yes, I blame Audi as they decided to put Google Earth in their cars and tout it in almost every TV ad you see. It is Audi vehicles (not Google) we're talking about.

[heisnuts]

This is not meant to stir the pot, but unless I am missing something here I don't know if this is going to be a huge deal when the change happens in 2020. As I understand it, in order for the Google Earth system to work, the owner would have to be paying for an Audi Connect Account, which currently runs $199 for 6 months or $499 for 18 months. I do not know the take rate for this service, but at those prices, I can't imagine it is that high since almost everyone has a smart phone these days with almost the same features. Keep in mind that by 2020 all of the free trial periods on the old system will have expired by then.

Maybe Audi USA can advise on what the take rate is currently for a paid Audi Connect Account.

[easy_button]

This is not meant to stir the pot, but unless I am missing something here I don't know if this is going to be a huge deal when the change happens in 2020. As I understand it, in order for the Google Earth system to work, the owner would have to be paying for an Audi Connect Account, which currently runs $199 for 6 months or $499 for 18 months. I do not know the take rate for this service, but at those prices, I can't imagine it is that high since almost everyone has a smart phone these days with almost the same features. Keep in mind that by 2020 all of the free trial periods on the old system will have expired by then.


Maybe Audi USA can advise on what the take rate is currently for a paid Audi Connect Account.

Not stirring the pot at all Sir! Does actually make more sense (from both sides) to place the burden on the phone side of the equation. Even with the new pricing structure, Audi Connect seemed a bit pricy for what you get. Never even considered extending after the trial period, even let the lifetime free traffic go (after fighting with Sirius about random bills for service I was not using). Phone works fine if not better.

[Uncle Buck]

Audi USA is never going to publish the take rate on this service. Thats proprietary info.


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[Doc H]

Count me among the "disappointed." Trading two X5ds with every option, less than three years old, for two yet-to-be-delivered similarly equipped Q7 Prestiges. And my BMWs have a leather dash and spare tires, better handling, better mileage and better torque. VC was a selling point. If Audi yanks any more Connect features, announced or otherwise, switching brands back will be very tempting.

[JohnnyHighSpeed]

Please add me to the list of disappointed customers over this issue. I purchased my 2018 S3 via the overseas military program a few months ago. None of the MMI nav features work while I am posted overseas (US spec car in Europe), which I knew going into it, but I had figured that at least I would have all the VC features to look forward to when I ship the car back to CONUS. Now I find out that one of the marquee aspects of VC will be deprecated before I ever even get to use it, and that’s a huge bummer. As someone above said, maybe I’ll just add a dedicated phone to my mobile plan and skip Audi Connect altogether at this point. What a shame.


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[Nikon1]

Considering that I ordered my S5 4 weeks ago and this was never brought up - disappointed is not strong enough to express my dissatisfaction! Paying over $65,000 for a car with this feature only to find out it goes away in 18 months is upsetting!

Please add my name to the list of upset customers. This is my first Audi and to have to “discover” this on an independent web site does t speak very highly of the manufacturer’s regard for their customers.

[adamkb26]

Definitely very disappointing news! Audi should be compensating the people affected by this as it's a pretty big feature of the VC. I personally love the google map overlay and get compliments on it all the time.

People seem to be saying 18 months but don't we have about 32 months? It says December 2020 so that would be all of this year, 2019, 2020, and basically it ends beginning 2021?

[b6bydesign04]

Definitely very disappointing news! Audi should be compensating the people affected by this as it's a pretty big feature of the VC. I personally love the google map overlay and get compliments on it all the time.

People seem to be saying 18 months but don't we have about 32 months? It says December 2020 so that would be all of this year, 2019, 2020, and basically it ends beginning 2021?

That's correct:

Hello rgobantes23,

Yes, you are correct Audi vehicles were initially manufactured to support Google Earth, but Google has since created a new software update in which the hardware in older vehicles will no longer be compatible with. Audi has taken steps to manufacture hardware that is compatible with the new software in MY19 and newer vehicles, but MY18 and older will no longer be able to use the Google Earth functionality as of December 31, 2020. I apologize for the inconvenience as I know this is frustrating, but please let me know if there's any other questions.

Thank you,

[digdah]

I am a little confused and would like clarification. Is it that Google Earth overlay on Google maps stops working but I can still use Google maps? Google Earth and Google Maps are one in the same and the entire overlay is going away?

[wishbone]

I am a little confused and would like clarification. Is it that Google Earth overlay on Google maps stops working but I can still use Google maps? Google Earth and Google Maps are one in the same and the entire overlay is going away?

Only the google earth overlay is going away. You will see your regular "non earth" maps instead. I don't believe those are sourced from google maps. I believe those are entirely stored locally provided by a different vendor. That's a good question though, someone correct me if I'm wrong.

[digdah]

Only the google earth overlay is going away. You will see your regular "non earth" maps instead. I don't believe those are sourced from google maps. I believe those are entirely stored locally provided by a different vendor. That's a good question though, someone correct me if I'm wrong.

Ok thanks I got it now. That really sucks!

[Tiggz911]

I need to add my own voice to this conversation. The ONLY reason I pay for the Audi Connect service is to get that "pretty picture" because it is far more accurate and easier to follow than a polygon map display. Once of the biggest reasons I bothered to buy the car in the first place was because of this feature. It is a feature set that was originally sold as part of the vehicle's overall offerings. The way I see it, this isn't up for debate. Audi needs to reconcile this with its owner base and implement a fix that will allow people who originally bought the vehicle new to continue to use this service.

It would also be reasonable to expect that people would decline to use any of the Audi subscription services once this change occurs. And, if i try to sell my vehicle and someone realizes that this was an option but they can't use it, I suspect this will lead to a steeper devaluation/depreciation of the car overall. This is unacceptable. I, just like many of you, paid for this option which will no longer be an option.

Again, this needs to be rectified. I was going to dump a ton more money into my next Audi purchase but if they are so quick to stop supporting a feature, they will lose me as a customer permanently. I'm quite sure more will follow suit.

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[briedfox]

I bought a 2018 S4, which was the first year of the B9 generation. So my car even being the first year of the new gen S4 is already going to have obsolete hardware that will not allow me to use Google Earth in 2.5 years? What a big disappointment. And people that buy the second year of the B9 S4 generation will be getting a hardware update to fix this? They are basically screwing over anyone that purchased the first year of the new gen B9. I am going to be extremely disappointed if Audi doesn't do something to rectify this situation.

[DCEsquire]

Won't this have a impact on the residual value of these cars. Can't help Audi when I turn in my 2017 A4 in a year.

The new Google Maps does appear to have a lot more detail. See here video of new Q8 Around 12:40

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwKJTg7eP6c

[briedfox]

Won't this have a impact on the residual value of these cars. Can't help Audi when I turn in my 2017 A4 in a year.

The new Google Maps does appear to have a lot more detail. See here video of new Q8 Around 12:40

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwKJTg7eP6c

To me there is no doubt that it will impact the value of MY18 B9 and earlier cars once Google Earth goes away. The trade-in value of my new 2018 S4 will be impacted when compared to the MY19 S4 and newer cars. Not when comparing directly, since a newer car will always be valued more, but I mean comparatively at the same amount of years that MY18 will have a more severe hit in residual value as time goes on. Hopefully Audi recognizes that this is an issue that they need to rectify.

[JohnEnglish]

I’m surprised the didn’t use HERE maps in the new Q8 like they have with the new A8 and A6.

[DCEsquire]

I’m surprised the didn’t use HERE maps in the new Q8 like they have with the new A8 and A6.

Really good point. The official Audi video at 3:19 shows Google Earth. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_c...&v=FN5mZv7_jEc

Funny though that the Audi Release doesn't mention Google Earth at all. http://media.audiusa.com/en-us/releases/243

Could there be some mix?

[DCEsquire]

Well all, here is something else to consider.

I just realized that my A4 technically isn't leased. I did it as a premier purchase. (I thought it was a lease)

With a lease I could just turn the guy back in, with a premier purchase I believe technically it's a trade in so if the car is worth a lot less I think I take the hit.

[draekin13]

This upsets me but fortunately I am on a 3 year least that will be up in May of 2021. I still believe that Audi should do something to compensate the affected owners of these vehicles as others have said this is a large selling point touted for these cars.

[mdpeterman]

Well all, here is something else to consider.

I just realized that my A4 technically isn't leased. I did it as a premier purchase. (I thought it was a lease)

With a lease I could just turn the guy back in, with a premier purchase I believe technically it's a trade in so if the car is worth a lot less I think I take the hit.

Your residual is guaranteed with premier purchase. You’ll be fine.

[2018Q5]

Hi Vincenzo, I took delivery of a 2018 P+ Q5 on August 1 2018 and deeply disappointed at this news. I wish I learn of the news sooner and could return the vehicle within 3 days/100 miles window offered by the dealership.

As a software architect I understand but not necessarily accept the rationale offered by Audi for desupporting a prominent feature that we paid for less than 3 weeks ago. A few posts here by software developers/architects already went into some of the technical questions and I think the community here deserves and appreciates an in-depth response from Audi.

Secondly, also as a real estates investor operating in different states I use Google Earth to scope out the area while driving to visit and evaluate the properties, the polygon rendering offered by Here or Google Map do not offer the aerial view that I need.

Thirdly, Audi prominently advertised the Google Earth features on Q5 marketing material. My Audi Authorized dealer sold me the Google Earth features during the test drive and NEVER mentioned that the Google Earth is to be de-supported in 2020.

Lastly, I just turned in my TDI (that I so wanted to keep) to VW a couple days ago and I admit that the memory is still fresh on corporate governance (or the lack of it). I can't help but telling my 2 relatives to hold off on their 2018 MY purchase decision pending a response from Audi.

What are our options ? Please feel free to contact me for a private discussion as needed.

Regards

[Solarsuplex]

Virtual cockpit was largely one of the reasons I was looking at the current gen S3 with that option. Having seen this info I am glad I made the choice to step into a b8 S4 without a virtual cockpit as losing the functionality after 2 years would be extremely upsetting.

[RightonRed]

Yea, looks like a double whamy for me.. Purchased a '18 RS3 in an exclusive color (Tango Red Metallic ~3900) that is now a standard color and now have a desupported NAV.. Took delivery on 27 July. Just my luck...

[scmguru]

The fact that this isn't being told to buyers of new vehicles before they purchase is unacceptable. I smell a class action brewing..

[Anthony]

The fact that this isn't being told to buyers of new vehicles before they purchase is unacceptable. I smell a class action brewing..

I did notice the following in the recent press release for the 2019 A7, tucked into the bottom of the article. It's out there, fine print or not.

Driver assistance features are not substitutes for attentive driving. See Owner’s Manual for further details, and important limitations.

Always pay careful attention to the road, and do not drive while distracted. See Owner’s Manual for further details, and important limitations.

Always obey local speed and traffic laws.

Connect PRIME services are optional, may require an additional subscription with separate terms and conditions, and should be used only when it is safe and appropriate. Trial or paid subscription required. Connect PRIME services require vehicle cellular connectivity and availability of vehicle GPS signal; certain services collect location information, see Terms of Service for information about how to disable. Online services are subject to change at any time. Google Earth features will not be available after December 2020 for Model Year 2018 & prior vehicles. Google Earth is a trademark of Google Inc. See Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and other details at https://www.audiusa.com/privacy and https://www.audiusa.com/technology/i.../connect-terms.

Audi Phone Box Requires compatible smart device. This is a CONSUMER device. BEFORE USE, you MUST REGISTER THIS DEVICE with your wireless provider and have your provider’s consent. Most wireless providers consent to the use of signal boosters. Some providers may not consent to the use of this device on their network. If you are unsure, contact your provider. You MUST operate this device with approved antennas and cables as specified by the manufacture. Antennas MUST be installed at least 20 cm (8 inches) from any person. You MUST cease operating this device immediately if requested by the FCC or a licensed wireless service provider. WARNING. E911 location information may not be provided or may be inaccurate for calls serviced by using this device."

Not all Apple CarPlay or Android Auto features available on all operating systems. Message and data usage rates apply. These features require compatible device, operating system, and mobile apps. See mobile device and app providers for terms and privacy. “Android, Android Auto, Google Play, and other marks are trademarks of Google Inc. “Apple CarPlay” is a trademark of Apple Inc.

Audi connect should only be used when it is safe and appropriate. Audi connect services and features are optional, provided with the support of authorized affiliated and third party service providers, and may require additional subscriptions with separate terms and conditions. Available on select models. Certain services collect location information, see Terms of Service for information about how to disable and for other details. Google Earth is a trademark of Google Inc. Connect services are subject to technologies remaining commercially available, such services are not guaranteed, and may not be available after 2021 for equipped MY17-20 vehicles.

[scmguru]

They should have clearly advised purchases of 2018 vehicles before they made they made the purchase.

[rgobantes23]

I did notice the following in the recent press release for the 2019 A7, tucked into the bottom of the article. It's out there, fine print or not.

It's there now but no such official statement when I was buying my 2018 SQ5 summer of 2017.

[rgobantes23]

It should also be not hidden in another vehicle's press release. Considering Audi is still clearing its name from the dieselgate, Audi should have been transparent in this virtual cockpit change.

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[wishbone]

I'm just going to add this here again. Please call AoA directly and let them know how you feel about this and ask what they plan to do about it. They need to hear from you directly.

(800) 822-2834

https://www.audiusa.com/help/contact-us

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[rgobantes23]

I have accepted the fact that Audi will never be like Lexus when it comes to customer service. I doubt they will listen to a calling customer. Audi will only listen if this becomes headline news like the dieselgate or there is a class action lawsuit against Audi on this issue.

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[AlisoA4]

I’d like to know:

What is the specific change Google has made, which makes the MY2018 Audi hardware obsolete?

Why was MY2018 cars not designed to be update-able?

To me, the Google Earth overlays are a BIG DEAL and not just flash. It’s what makes the navigation so intuitive to use and it was a significant part of why I bought the car



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[Anthony]

It's there now but no such official statement when I was buying my 2018 SQ5 summer of 2017.

It should also be not hidden in another vehicle's press release. Considering Audi is still clearing its name from the dieselgate, Audi should have been transparent in this virtual cockpit change.

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I wouldn't be surprised if it's in your car's literature and/or your sales contract. It may not have been told to you by your salesperson, but I'm sure it's in the paperwork somewhere.

[rgobantes23]

I read every single document of my purchase transaction and it's not there. I do contracts for a living. I even had the dealer correct errors on a couple of documents before I signed the dotted line.

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