MFD2 GPS software

[Tensixty6]

Being ignorant on matters electronic, would anyone care to explain to me why a head unit such as the factory MFD2 system as fitted to my 2006 GTI will only accept Sensis SatNav software? What is the restriction? Is it the firmware?

I'd love to run iGo 8 or even Route 66. I find the Sensis software to be decidedly amateur compared to other software I've seen.

It seems such a waste to replace the whole unit just to get better GPS software.

[Cam]

Its a mixture of hardware and software limitations (to the best of my knowledge)

The software side of things I'm not too sure on, I'm guessing licensing is a big factor. VW would have struck some sort of deal with Sensis/Teleatlas/Blaupunkt to provide the maps + associated copy protection doesn't help either.

Hardware wise, the processor + memory (including disc read/write speed) probably isn't powerful enough to handle the extra detailed maps and 3D view with newer map providers.

I know what you mean though, I have a CD version MFD2 and the maps are very primitive compared to a standard navman and RNS510. Thats to be expected I guess from an older unit.

[Tensixty6]

Pretty much what l expected to hear "Cam".

I'd fit one of those RNS510 lookalike units from China without hesitation, were it not for the fact that they all seem to be plagued with technical & reliability issues.