I received a push notification a couple of weeks ago for my long term Mini Cooper SE for an over-the-air (OTA) update.

Mini’s Operating System 9 lets you update it directly from the Mini app. If you don’t use the app, you are missing out on key features that makes the EV experience that much better. It is available for both Android and iOS.

All I did was go into the app and choose to update it remotely while it was parked in my garage. It took approximately 20 minutes and I did it the night before so there were no time constraints.

From the Mini app

The latest update (11/2024.67) brings new features such as a faster digital assistant; a better charging interface; Go Kart mode offers more data; and an improved diagnostics for the braking system.

The most noticeable improvement for me is the additional data to the charging interface. Now when you charge, you can see the amount of range, instead of just a percentage. At least now with a quick glance/peek through the window because it’s large, you can see an estimated amount of range with the percentage. This is useful if you stop by for a quick charge and cannot wait till 100%.

Mini

The Digital Key Plus optional feature can now support up to 18 digital keys on different devices per vehicle. The main driver sets the key permissions, which ranges from vehicle access without engine start to full administrator rights. While Digital Key Plus is available to any smartphone or smart watch with ultra wide band support, Mini says this 18 key feature is compatible with the iOS operating system.

Another nifty update is the addition of real-time data on the fun Go Kart Mode. There are visuals for output, torque and acceleration force. It also has other data like engine temperature, boost pressure etc. If you love data, or just fun visualisations of your moving car, this is super useful. While I use the Green mode the most, the Go Kart Mode is quintessentially Mini for you to enjoy every now and then.

Mini OS9 improvements 

  • Operating System 9 runs more smoothly
  • It processes voice inputs with greater accuracy
  • Profiles load faster and operation is more intuitive
  • Media playback via Bluetooth and streaming has been improved
  • The connection to Apple CarPlay is more stable

This new update, version 11/2024.67 brought the following updates (change log):

  • Sharing the Mini Digital Key will soon be even easier and more flexible
  • ⁠New journey data display in Go-Kart Mode
  • From now on, access your favourites even faster
  • MINI Charging full screen now with available range
  • Bring the battery up to temperature with the MINI app
  • Charge quickly and gently as usual, even on cold days
  • ⁠Green Mode now offers the MAX RANGE function
  • Upgrade of optimised diagnostic capability of the brake system (IBS)
  • Faster MINI Operating System 9 with improved functions

I appreciate the level of information and features outlined by Mini that it continuously improves on. The tech person in me appreciates this greatly as there is nothing more frustrating than buggy software. It can make or break the driving experience (well, least in an EV).