With high speed Bluetooth version 3 now available, you get 802.11 speeds and better security.
Garmin already have experience with Bluetooth so it would not be that new to them.
I agree that simple low level data with wired connection has its advantages but should not preclude new technologies.
When we first started Bluetooth I remember getting our first devices back from the Fab and the best we could do was a 1200
baud data connection over an 8 cm link, how things have improved!
Unless we push the boundaries we will never make progress.
I have to say that I think this software change has been implemented to try to stop some of the criticism they have had from what
was a pretty bad oversight on their part.
I guess they have tried to do the best they could without having the customers implement new wiring changes to bring out any
spare serial channel for the data connection so good on them for that.
As for why we need it, as has been said, its about time on the ground.
My IO-540 uses enough fuel as it is without wasting any more than I have to.
