After the Bosch update for the eBike Flow app in August this year, tempers in the Bosch community sometimes ran a little high. Why? Well, with the new software version, a few new functions were released exclusively for those whose ebike features a ConnectModule and who use Bosch’s app for the Smart System in the Flow+ subscription model. However, not all functions were necessarily linked to the ConnectModule. Apparently, Bosch has recognised the dissatisfaction and has now made amends with the latest update 1.24.
1. Using Flow+ also with Bosch ConnectModule
2. Change route while navigation is running
3. New button for Ride Screen
4. End activity tracking more easily
1. Using Flow+ also with Bosch ConnectModule
The paid version of the eBike Flow app, the Flow+ subscription, includes four exclusive services:
- eBike Alarm: theft protection with GPS tracking, alarm signals on the eBike and notifications in the event of suspicious movements
- Current charge level: remote tracking of the charging process in the app
- Extended navigation: a more detailed map view for the Bosch Kiox 300 and Bosch Kiox 500 displays
- Additional statistics: Overviews for comparing your own physical performance and the performance of the motor as well as the use of the riding modes
As part of the 1.24 update, Bosch is now ensuring that you will be able to use two of these services as part of Flow+ without a Bosch ConnectModule being installed on your ebike. The first of these is the extended navigation. Thanks to this feature, the navigation screen contains significantly more details than before. Planned routes appear clearer, as main and secondary roads can be clearly distinguished from each other on the map, making junctions and exits more recognisable.
Secondly, after installing the latest software version, you will have access to the ‘Power share’ screen and the ‘Riding mode usage’ data field. Both additional statistics provide information on your use of the ebike system. For example, they reveal which assistance level you select most frequently and how many watts you have invested while riding.
Test first, then decide
You can test these functions free of charge for a certain period of time. For an ebike without a ConnectModule, the test lasts one month. With a built-in GPS tracker, it lasts for twelve months. If you decide to use the extended navigation and additional statistics beyond this period, you will then pay either from the second or 13th month either 4.99 euros per month or 39.99 euros for an entire year. Please note that this offer only applies if you are actually using Flow+ for the very first time.
The two other Flow+ services ‘eBike Alarm’ and ‘Current charge level’ are excluded from the promotion. This is simply because they require a ConnectModule.
To find out whether your eBike has the Bosch ConnectModule, simply take a look at the eBike Flow app. Navigate there from the ‘My eBike’ menu via the ‘eBike Pass’ submenu to the ‘Components’ item. If a ConnectModule is installed, it will be listed here.
2. Change route while navigation is running
Update 1.24 introduces a further change in relation to navigation. From now on, a planned route can be modified while riding. In future, you will not only be able to change the route completely, but also replace an intermediate destination with another one, delete it or add a new one. No more cancelling the route like before! Instead, you can switch from route navigation to route editing, enter your new plan there and then continue the route. The function is linked to the Range Control feature. This means that the prediction of the battery level with which you are likely to reach your destination is also updated.
3. New button for Ride Screen
Bosch has also revised a few details regarding the operation of the app. A completely new round button will soon appear. Tapping it will take you directly to the Ride Screen. Bosch has placed the button at the bottom of the app in the main menu bar. This makes it possible to switch to the Ride Screen from almost any menu. An animation around the button signals that you are currently recording an activity. When the connection between the app and ebike is active, the wave within the button appears in the colour of the current riding mode.
4. End activity tracking more easily
Speaking of recording activity. This has been made a little easier with update 1.24. Activity Tracking can now be cancelled directly from the home screen. This puts an end to the previous method of switching to the relevant route in navigation. From now on, the trip time and route are displayed on the home screen. There is a stop button to the right of the information, which you can use to stop recording the current activity.
Pictures: Bosch eBike Systems