Ho-hum!

I just think we shouldn't lose sight of the fact that this is a piece of software that makes it easier and more fun for us all to get from A to B. Ok as satnav users we have a little advantage over the majority of drivers when we are enjoying our leisure time, getting to work, taking the dogs for walks, etc. 10 years from now EVERYONE will have satnav in their cars and it will be no big deal. Lets enjoy that extra little bit of security and comfort while we can.

I don't really know the owners/founders, but this seems to be predominantly a none profit site that only gives to it's viewers. I understand what OfficeMavern is saying but if BMW were jacked about it I'm sure all those OS image files would have been removed months if not years ago. Basically X5world is saving BMW a load of admin and labour, while also getting free customer feedback (the beta recodes accepted). I think it's a no brainer that they leave well alone.

I think it's VDO/Siemens that work on the OS-9000 firmware. I'm confident there is a clear strategic distinction between the issue of proprietary licenced NAVTEQ map disks and firmware releases. If a dealership supplies you with a new map disk it costs them materials- if its a firmware upgrade it costs them time.

So V27 - let's be having it then!