Global automotive over the air (OTA) updates market size is growing at a robust pace with the need to enhance a vehicle’s firmware and software through timely upgrades and bug fixes. As more and more electronic components are added to a vehicle, like ECUs, telematics, infotainment systems and security measures, updating devices regularly has become paramount. Faster development of connected car technologies has fostered automotive OTA updates industry trends.

Rapid deployment of 5G connectivity has also spurred investments in the sector. For instance, in early 2022 LG Electronics had signed a deal with a European automaker to strengthen its reach into connected and autonomous vehicle segments. Such efforts indicate the considerable potential of over-the-air updates across the upcoming generation of vehicles. Two of the key segments in the industry include software OTA and firmware OTA technologies, poised to advance both passenger and commercial vehicle experience.

Infotainment applications are anticipated to hold around 20% share of automotive over the air updates market by 2028. Infotainment units have now become a necessity rather than a luxury, providing features like entertainment, navigation, smartphone compatibility, etc. As the technology in these devices advance, it will create a demand for faster, more secure way of software and firmware updates.

Many auto companies have made progress in upgrading existing infotainment systems via OTA solutions. Citing an example, in February this year Jaguar Land Rover had announced over-the-air updates for its Pivi Pro 3.0 or later systems, to provide deep Alexa integration. The aim is to allow the use of Alexa for hands-free features, such as navigation, music, and other capabilities of the AI system. Most of the vehicles under this program would be able to get the Alexa feature as a free OTA update.

With regards to the development of in-vehicle systems, Toyota and Lexus had confirmed in January 2022 that they would be modernizing their infotainment platforms to keep pace with demand in the U.S. market. Harman, the Samsung-owned company active in the consumer, enterprise and automotive industries, has introduced new solutions for its infotainment systems, enhancing the in-vehicle communication and entertainment experience for customers. As evident, consistent evolution of infotainment units will bolster global automotive OTA updates industry outlook.

It is projected that Latin America over the air updates market size will register over 20% CAGR between 2022 and 2028. An increasing demand for autonomous vehicles will be one of the major driving factors. In 2020, Chile had launched LATAM’s first self-driving vehicle for public transportation, paving the way for future mobility. The region is also witnessing developments in connectivity technologies. For example, Brazil has signed a number of 5G deals, which could help the deployment of driverless vehicles in the country.

Automotive OTA updates industry size in the Middle East and Africa region is expected to grow at around 15% CAGR through 2028, due to increased access to connected vehicle technologies. The availability of leading luxury car brands in most of the MEA nations has created a favourable ground for connected vehicle solution providers. Recently, Lexus Connect Service was launched in the UAE by Al-Futtaim Lexus, to enable connection with smartphones and use in-vehicle features remotely.
Countries like the UAE have also begun testing self-driving vehicles to push forward convenient mobility solutions, representing significant growth opportunities for automotive OTA market players.