BMW Assist

BMW Assist is a cellular based automotive roadside assistance service offered by BMW. BMW Assist is similar to GM's OnStar or Mercedes-Benz TeleAid services as they both use the cellular network and Global Positioning telemetry to locate or guide the vehicle. BMW Assist can provide turn-by-turn directions, remote unlocking, vehicle diagnostics, airbag deployment notification, theft recovery and towing or flat tire repair. The service is included free in most new BMWs. After expiration, it can be purchased at a yearly rate.

BMW Assist is integrated into the car's communication and audio systems. It works in conjunction with the navigation system (if equipped) or uses its own GPS equipment. The original BMW Assist system worked in conjunction with the AMPS cellular network for data transmission and voice communication. Current BMW Assist systems work using more advanced CDMA, TDMA, or GSM technology.

The car communicates via the cellular network with a Back-end system that receives and analyzes the information. Both voice and data (via SMS or GPRS) is transmitted. Dependent of the application, the information is routed for example to a call-center or presented on a web-site. The Back-end is operated by ATX Group, the world's largest independent Telematics Service Provider (TSP).

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