Honda’s $112-Plus Software Update Makes Older Accords Tech-Savvy Again

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Honda is taking a stand against planned obsolescence with a fresh initiative. They’re letting dealers work their magic to give 2018–2022 Accords a wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto upgrade for a modest fee.

Although the new feature will not be available over the air — a dealer technician will have to do it — it will be accomplished thanks to a software update. The new tech will be available to Honda Accords from the 2018-2022 model years that were originally equipped with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Honda anticipates that the new software will enable as many as 631,000 Accords that are already on the road to suddenly use the third-party infotainment software wirelessly. It claims that this will help keep the vehicles relevant to their owners and on the road longer, ultimately making them greener.

“This quick software update enables customers to leverage hardware already in their Honda vehicle to enjoy seamless connectivity through wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto,” said Jay Joseph, VP of sustainability and business development at American Honda. “Enhancing the ownership experience and market value of Honda vehicles already in use is a key strategy in pursuit of our goal to have zero environmental impact by 2050.”

Read: Google’s Android Auto Gets AI To Answer Texts While You’re Driving

The update won’t be accomplished for free, though. The new software will cost owners $112, and they will have to pay labor costs for the technician’s time. It is not clear how long the new software will take to install.

Honda says that the update will also be completed on any eligible second-hand vehicles that it sells as part of its certified pre-owned program. It says that wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be offered at no extra charge for these cars. It is not yet clear if similar updates will be offered to Honda vehicles other than the Accord.