Navdy was a unique and innovative head-up display (HUD) system that brought a futuristic, augmented-reality experience to car navigation. Unlike traditional GPS devices or built-in infotainment systems, Navdy projected essential driving information, including navigation directions, speed, and notifications, onto a transparent screen placed on your dashboard. By combining gesture control, smartphone integration, and real-time GPS navigation, Navdy quickly gained popularity among tech-savvy drivers looking for a safer, hands-free driving experience.
Although the company behind Navdy ceased operations several years ago, many users still rely on their devices. For those still using the Navdy GPS, updating it can be a concern—especially since traditional update channels and support structures are no longer in place. This article outlines everything you need to know about how Navdy updates worked, what options remain for current users, and how to make the most of your device today.
Before diving into the update process, it's helpful to understand how the Navdy GPS system functioned. The device consisted of three core components:
The Navdy display unit: Mounted on the dashboard, this transparent screen displayed augmented-reality graphics.
The dial controller: Installed near the steering wheel, this let users scroll through menus and make selections with one hand.
The Navdy app: Installed on a smartphone, it connected the device to navigation services, notifications, contacts, and music.
Navdy did not rely on a built-in SIM card or wireless module. Instead, it connected to your phone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to access GPS navigation, updates, and other features. The app served as the bridge between Navdy’s hardware and online services, making it the key tool for performing updates.
Navdy GPS updates came in two main categories:
Firmware updates: These were software updates for the Navdy display unit and controller. They improved system performance, fixed bugs, and occasionally added new features.
App updates: Updates to the Navdy companion app improved phone integration, introduced interface changes, and updated navigation features provided by third-party map services.
Because Navdy relied heavily on the smartphone app for mapping data and functionality, keeping the app up to date was just as important as updating the hardware.
The company behind Navdy officially shut down operations, and as a result, official updates from the original developers have ceased. The app was eventually removed from app stores, and official support and map updates stopped being available.
However, Navdy’s user community has remained somewhat active in helping owners keep their devices operational. Through third-party solutions and archived versions of the app, some functionality has been preserved. That said, navigation updates are limited compared to when the device was supported officially.
When Navdy was operational, updating the GPS system involved these steps:
Connecting the device to Wi-Fi via the app
Checking for firmware updates in the settings menu
Installing updates from the app to the hardware display
Ensuring the smartphone app was the latest version available on Google Play or the Apple App Store
The Navdy app would notify users when a new firmware version was available and guide them through the process. Updates could take several minutes, during which the device needed to remain powered on and connected.
Since Navdy's servers and update channels are no longer active, automatic updates no longer function. This means:
No new map data is being pushed to the device
Firmware updates are no longer available through the original app
Any features relying on live services (such as traffic updates or live search) are no longer operational
However, this doesn’t mean the device is useless. Many users still use their Navdy GPS as a basic HUD for turn-by-turn directions, speed display, and call/text notifications, all driven by the smartphone’s existing data.
Dedicated Navdy enthusiasts have created unofficial workarounds to continue using the system. Some of the options include:
Archived versions of the Navdy app: Available through third-party APK repositories for Android or backup installers for iOS devices, though installation may require advanced knowledge of mobile software.
Offline navigation apps: Apps like Google Maps, Sygic, or HERE can be used on the smartphone while projecting turn-by-turn directions to the Navdy display through standard Bluetooth connections.
Repurposing the HUD: Some users have modified the system to display other types of data from different apps using custom Bluetooth setups.
While these methods allow for basic continued use, they come with limitations and no official support.
If you are continuing to use your Navdy device, here are some tips to maintain the best possible performance:
Keep your smartphone GPS and navigation apps updated: Since Navdy mirrors your phone’s data, using the latest version of your preferred navigation app ensures more accurate routing.
Use offline maps when traveling: Because Navdy relies on your phone for connectivity, downloading offline maps can prevent issues when you're out of range.
Optimize Bluetooth connections: Ensure your phone maintains a stable connection with the Navdy device. Re-pair devices if issues arise.
Minimize reliance on live features: Features like real-time traffic or internet search may not function due to lack of server support, so use alternative apps for those tasks.
Given the shutdown of official Navdy services, users should be aware of the following limitations:
No map updates: You’re limited to the last known version of mapping data that was stored on your phone or device before the shutdown.
No firmware improvements: Any bugs or quirks present in the last version of the firmware will remain.
Incompatibility with newer phones: As mobile operating systems evolve, older apps like Navdy’s may become incompatible, causing crashes or failures to connect.
Security risks: Installing apps from unofficial sources can carry potential security risks.
While Navdy’s HUD concept was ahead of its time, technology continues to advance. If updating your device is no longer viable or it’s no longer functional due to software limitations, it may be worth considering alternatives such as:
Aftermarket HUDs: There are newer devices that offer similar augmented-reality displays with updated map support and smartphone connectivity.
Integrated infotainment systems: Many modern vehicles now include head-up displays or sophisticated navigation tools directly in the dashboard.
Smartphone HUD apps: These project a mirrored version of your phone’s display onto your windshield, using reflective film.
While replacing Navdy may feel like letting go of a unique tool, newer options often provide greater long-term support and functionality.
Navdy was a visionary product that brought a new level of interactivity and safety to vehicle navigation. Despite the company’s closure, many users continue to appreciate its utility. While updating the Navdy GPS in the traditional sense is no longer possible, creative users can still maintain limited functionality by keeping their smartphones up to date, using alternative navigation apps, and exploring community-driven workarounds.
Ultimately, the best way to continue enjoying your Navdy device is to understand its limitations, accept the lack of official support, and maximize what functionality remains. With careful setup and the right mobile tools, you can still benefit from the futuristic driving experience that Navdy was designed to offer.
If you're considering future-proofing your navigation setup, evaluating newer HUD options or integrated vehicle systems might be the next step in your tech journey.