How to Update TomTom Software on Computer

Keeping your TomTom software on computer up to date is essential for accurate navigation, reliable routing, and access to the latest features. Whether you own a TomTom GPS device or are managing the TomTom app via your computer, regular updates ensure your device runs smoothly and provides the most up-to-date maps, points of interest (POIs), and firmware improvements. This guide provides a step-by-step process for updating your TomTom software on a computer, including troubleshooting tips and best practices.

Why Updating TomTom Software on Computer Is Important

Updating your TomTom software on a computer provides several benefits:

1. Accurate Navigation – Updates include new roads, changes in traffic patterns, and updated points of interest.
2. Enhanced Performance – Software and firmware updates fix bugs, improve speed, and optimize device stability.
3. Access to New Features – Updates may include lane guidance, improved routing, traffic alerts, and other useful features.
4. Safety Improvements – Updated speed camera locations, road restrictions, and hazard warnings ensure safer navigation.
5. Compatibility – Ensures your device works with the latest maps, POIs, and connected TomTom services.

Tools Needed for Updating TomTom Software

To update your TomTom software via computer, you will need:

• A computer (Windows or Mac) with internet access.
• Your TomTom GPS device or compatible app.
• USB cable to connect the device.
• MyDrive Connect installed on your computer.
• Sufficient storage space on your device for software, maps, and POI updates.

Ensure your GPS device is fully charged or connected to a power source to prevent interruptions during the update process.

Step 1: Install or Update MyDrive Connect

MyDrive Connect is required to manage TomTom software updates on a computer:

1. Download and install MyDrive Connect from the official TomTom website for Windows or Mac.
2. Open the application and log in with your TomTom account.
3. Make sure MyDrive Connect itself is up to date for compatibility with your device.

Step 2: Connect Your Device

1. Connect your TomTom GPS device to your computer using a USB cable.
2. Power on the device; it should appear in MyDrive Connect automatically.
3. If the device is not detected, try another USB port or cable, and avoid USB hubs as they may interfere with connectivity.

Step 3: Backup Your Device

Before updating, create a full backup to protect your data:

1. In MyDrive Connect, select your device.
2. Click Backup & Restore.
3. Follow the prompts to save favorites, recent routes, and settings on your computer.

A backup ensures you can restore your data if the update fails or the device encounters an error.

Step 4: Check for Software Updates

1. In MyDrive Connect, select your device.
2. Look for available software, firmware, and map updates.
3. If updates are available, select Update Now.
4. For advanced users, you can choose Manual Update to select which updates to install.

Step 5: Download and Install Updates

1. Download the selected updates to your computer. Large updates, especially maps, may take time depending on your internet speed.
2. Transfer the updates to your device using MyDrive Connect.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to start installation. Do not disconnect or turn off the device during installation.
4. The device may restart automatically after the updates are applied.

Step 6: Update Maps and Additional Features

Software updates often include updates for:

• Maps – Ensures your navigation reflects the latest roads and locations.
• Points of Interest (POIs) – Adds new gas stations, restaurants, and other destinations.
• Traffic Information – Keeps real-time traffic alerts working correctly.
• Speed Cameras – Updated locations for safer driving.

Select only the updates you need if storage is limited.

Step 7: Verify the Update

After completing updates:

1. Disconnect your device safely from the computer.
2. Navigate to Settings > About Device or Software Version.
3. Confirm that software, maps, and POI versions match the latest release.
4. Test navigation to ensure updated routes and features are functioning properly.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Even on a computer, some issues may occur during updates:

• Device not recognized – Restart the computer and device, ensure MyDrive Connect is installed, and try a different USB cable.
• Update fails mid-download – Check your internet connection and free storage space, then retry the update.
• Insufficient storage – Remove old maps or unused features to free up space.
• Slow installation – Large updates may take time; avoid disconnecting the device until complete.

Tips for Smooth Updates

• Regular Updates – Update software and maps every few months for optimal performance.
• Check Storage – Ensure your device has enough free space before starting updates.
• Keep Device Powered – Prevent interruptions that could corrupt the software.
• Use a Reliable USB Cable – Avoid disconnections during installation.
• Selective Updates – Install only the updates you need to save time and storage.

Conclusion

Knowing how to update TomTom software on computer ensures your GPS device remains accurate, reliable, and safe for navigation. By following these steps—from installing MyDrive Connect, connecting your device, backing up data, downloading and installing updates, to verifying the installation—you can maintain a fully functional and up-to-date TomTom device. Regular updates improve navigation accuracy, provide new f