Latest BYD OTA Update Brings Wireless Apple CarPlay To Atto 3, Dolphin & Seal

Chinese NEV-making giant BYD has quietly rolled out a new over-the-air (OTA) software update patch for three of its core EV models - the Atto 3, Dolphin, and Seal.

Chinese NEV-making giant BYD has rolled out a new over-the-air (OTA) software update for its core EV models, namely the Atto 3 crossover, Dolphin hatch, and Seal saloon. A key new feature added in this latest OTA update V1.8.0 patch sees the addition of wireless Apple CarPlay in all three.

We were made aware of this update via a report by Australian site CarExpert.com.au. Following which, we were also able to check with several local Atto 3 and Seal owners who’ve kindly helped us verify that said update’s is now available in local Malaysian units.

OTA update V1.8.0 sees all three EVs mentioned now gaining wireless Apple CarPlay in their respective infotainment touchscreen units.

As a refresher, all three BYD EV models mentioned already offered both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity when they were first launched, albeit via wired USB connection. Wireless Android Auto was enabled first in all three via BYD’s last OTA update pack issued late last year.

This latest V1.8.0 patch now brings the same convenient wireless connectivity for the car-focused Apple iPhone display mode. Of course, that’s not all as this update patch also reportedly brings several other minor updates and revisions too.

CarExpert.com.au further reports that OTA update V1.8.0 also brings optimisations to the Atto 3 EV crossover’s active driver assistance (ADAS) including how frequently they trigger and their volume. Presently, it remains unclear if this is also reflected in Malaysian Atto 3 units.

Specifically for the Atto 3, OTA update V1.8.0 also brings optimisations for said EV crossover's ADAS features.

Other revisions reportedly include a new lock/unlock function when the power is on, a new off position for the daytime running lights, new mute function activation via short pressing the volume wheel when a Bluetooth-connected phone rings, and a new position function in the BYD phone app.

The same report also indicates that the update brings new languages for both the system and voice assistant suite. There’s also a newly added ‘Camping Mode’ that allow the use of air-conditioning while the vehicle is off with at least a 20% state of charge (SOC), as well as a new ‘Karaoke’ function.

Elsewhere, OTA update V1.8.0 also brings a host of small revisions all around plus a slew of newly added functions and features.

Again we’re unable to verify much of the other revisions and newly added function and features, but we’re certain the arrival of wireless Apple CarPlay is a much welcomed addition for most owners.

Locally, the Atto 3 is both the oldest model on sale and the first to undergo a major upgrade earlier this year that saw BYD SD Motors streamline its line-up with just a single Standard Range variant available priced from RM149,800.

The Atto 3 recently underwent an update to see just a sole Standard Range variant on sale now priced from RM149,800.

Both the Dolphin hatch (left) and Seal saloon (right) see two variants available respectively. They are priced from RM99,900 and RM179,800 respectively.

The smaller Dolphin hatch model saw an upgraded version debut in China back in Feb this year, but it continues to see its pre-upgrade form launched in July last year available locally across two variants – Standard and Extended Range – priced from RM99,900 and RM124,900 respectively.

Lastly, the Seal stands as the very latest amongst this trio to make landfall. Launched earlier this year, said sleek four-door saloon sees both RWD Premium and Performance AWD variants available priced from RM179,800 and RM199,800 respectively.