bootmod3 New Feature Release *** OBD Unlock and OFFLINE Flasher ***

[CaryTheLabelGuy]

Originally Posted by aboulfad

May I ask what is the game changer? It can't be the OBD unlock as other platforms had it since December, and it can't be the offline feature, because that must have been an architecture/tool decision to have the flashing process requires an online connection.

I've read the OP, and aside from flashing counter stuff (which may or may not help with tune detection...), is there a new key feature differentiator ?

Re-read the OP.

[FriedPiston]

Originally Posted by aboulfad

May I ask what is the game changer? It can't be the OBD unlock as other platforms had it since December, and it can't be the offline feature, because that must have been an architecture/tool decision to have the flashing process requires an online connection.

I've read the OP, and aside from flashing counter stuff (which may or may not help with tune detection...), is there a new key feature differentiator ?

IMO, these are some of the things that set bootmod3 apart from other flash-based tuners:

1. Cost

* $595 is a bargain compared to what other flash tuners are charging; you can technically buy two BM3 licenses for the cost of one tune from other vendors.

* Next best thing is MHD at $299, but their platform isn't quite (yet) as refined as BM3. With everything added up (Map Pack $149 and Monitoring $99), then MHD comes out to about the same, less the GTS TCU flash.

2. Value

* Standard map packs (OEM CS, OEM GTS + choice of 1 OTS map)
* GTS TCU flash ($300 value)

3. Flash Times/Availability

* Instant flash tune; no waiting for tune files from vendor
* Offline mode
* Multi-platform (iOS, Android, Mac, Windows)
* Initial OBD unlock + flash in less than 5 minutes
* Map changes in under a minute

4. Features

* Auto flash counter freeze after OBD unlock
* Flash counter limitation bypass
* Custom coding import/migration
* Ability to resell BM3 license

I'm sure there's more, but these are just some of the things I can think of. At the current price point, this is almost a no brainer for those who are on the fence about going with a flash-based tuner. Even the popular JB4 is no longer a bargain (if bought new) with all things in consideration, unless you're just opposed to flash tuning for personal reasons.

As I said earlier, PTF just disrupted the market with this announcement, and pretty much all other vendors need to lower their inflated prices if they want to stay relevant/competitive in this flooded market.

[Justin.AutoTalent]

Originally Posted by nars3000

IMO, these are some of the things that set bootmod3 apart from other flash-based tuners:

1. Cost

* $595 is a bargain compared to what other flash tuners are charging; you can technically buy two BM3 licenses for the cost of one tune from other vendors.

* Next best thing is MHD at $299, but their platform isn't quite (yet) as refined as BM3. With everything added up (Map Pack $149 and Monitoring $99), then MHD comes out to about the same, less the GTS TCU flash.

2. Value

* Standard map packs (OEM CS, OEM GTS + choice of 1 OTS map)
* GTS TCU flash ($300 value)

3. Flash Times/Availability

* Instant flash tune; no waiting for tune files from vendor
* Offline mode
* Multi-platform (iOS, Android, Mac, Windows)
* Initial OBD unlock + flash in less than 5 minutes
* Map changes in under a minute

4. Features

* Auto flash counter freeze after OBD unlock
* Flash counter limitation bypass
* Custom coding import/migration
* Ability to resell BM3 license

I'm sure there's more, but these are just some of the things I can think of. At the current price point, this is almost a no brainer for those who are on the fence about going with a flash-based tuner. Even the popular JB4 is no longer a bargain (if bought new) with all things in consideration, unless you're just opposed to flash tuning for personal reasons.

As I said earlier, PTF just disrupted the market with this announcement, and pretty much all other vendors need to lower their inflated prices if they want to stay relevant/competitive in this flooded market.

I've had multiple tunes (both flash and piggy back) on my previous build and there really is no comparison. Their tune support and consistent update releases for the bootmod3 platform as well as off the shelf maps is very impressive.

BM3 is the only thing I recommend for the M3/M4 platform...

[FriedPiston]

Originally Posted by Justin.AutoTalent

I've had multiple tunes (both flash and piggy back) on my previous build and there really is no comparison. Their tune support and consistent update releases for the bootmod3 platform as well as off the shelf maps is very impressive.

BM3 is the only thing I recommend for the M3/M4 platform...

It's hard not to recommend bootmod3 to anyone, and even more so now with the convenience of OBD unlock. A lot of us knew it was just a matter of time, however, the biggest differentiator in my opinion is total cost. There is one particular tuner that does really good work outside of the BM3 platform, specializing in built-to-order customized features. I'm sure if they lowered their cost to match that of BM3, then people will continue to consider their services.

In the end, we all ought to appreciate the level of development PTF has brought to this platform, as this kind of breakthrough is what forces other tuning vendors to stay competitive. It's a win-win scenario for customers that's for sure!

[Laoschris]

Wow, this looks awesome.

So, I'll just need to purchase an ENET cable (third party for cost), purchase from website, and that's it? Everything is available right away to flash and load x tune as long as I have the cable?

[135Hoser]

website wont' accept my VIN

EDIT: Nevermind. Issue with my adblocker apparently.

EDIT2: Glad I waited for BM3. I now own a license for it!

[ptper]

Anybody seen 1/4 mile times for the stage 1 tune on 93 specifically? I've seen the stage 2 numbers, which I'm unlikely to do, and I think it's too early to see numbers for CS/GTS. Can't say I've come across anything on stage 1 though. Just curious if anybody got to the track with it. If not, I'm sure we'll see lots of data on it this year. I kinda like the idea of being able to switch on a dime to any of these maps while at the strip!

[swifty]

Originally Posted by 135Hoser

website wont' accept my VIN

EDIT: Nevermind. Issue with my adblocker apparently.

EDIT2: Glad I waited for BM3. I now own a license for it!

Is the beta testing only for current customers who bench flashed.

[6SPD GOD]

Originally Posted by proTUNING Freaks

Hey guys, some great news we're really
- Revert back to Stock and locked. No chance of tamper code showing once flashed back.
- No flash counter limitations - our dev cars have been flashed well over 1000 times. This has always been a BM3 feature.
- Flash date freeze - unique BM3-first feature, no other tool supports today. Flash date never changes when flashing with BM3.
- Flash counter freezes after OBD unlock.

1. Does this mean no more flagging at the dealer if flashed back to stock?

2. In order to keep the flash counter stock and avoid tamper code, does the DME need to be removed or OBD would do just fine?



My apologies if this questions seems foolish, I'd appreciate some explanation.

[aboulfad]

Originally Posted by CaryTheLabelGuy

Re-read the OP.

I don't have BM3 or any other tune product, so I usually read a bit, but I couldn't figure out from the OP and my limited knowledge of BM3 what is a game changer.

[aboulfad]

@nars3000 , thanks for the recap of BM3 features. I am familiar with most of it, I was just curious what NEW game changer feature that sets BM3 from the pack. Personally and hypothetically, if I ever will tune my car, BM3 is the best offering out there, especially for the DIYers/curious types.

And I've read the OP few times, maybe it's the flashing speed, ENET cable and flash counter features? Which some BTW were demoed by another vendor. I may have downplayed the importance of those as the jury is out how important are the various "tune detection camouflage" techniques... Anyways, and regardless it is a nice new update to this platform

[FriedPiston]

Originally Posted by aboulfad

@nars3000 , thanks for the recap of BM3 features. I am familiar with most of it, I was just curious what NEW game changer feature that sets BM3 from the pack. Personally and hypothetically, if I ever will tune my car, BM3 is the best offering out there, especially for the DIYers/curious types.

And I've read the OP few times, maybe it's the flashing speed, ENET cable and flash counter features? Which some BTW were demoed by another vendor. I may have downplayed the importance of those as the jury is out how important are the various "tune detection camouflage" techniques... Anyways, and regardless it is a nice new update to this platform

Yup, I know you know your stuff, and I know you have the tendency of downplaying what you know

Not needing a battery charger due to the exponentially increased speeds with the flash operation is a major game changer. The cost, convenience, and overall features are all game changers, as well.

[swifty]

Originally Posted by swifty

Is the beta testing only for current customers who bench flashed.

Can someone advise on this. Can I apply to be a beta tester.

Also when will they role out the finished product?

[drgmt]

Nice work.

But nothing is game changing here.

[aboulfad]

Originally Posted by Modaddict79

Nice work.

But nothing is game changing here.

I've had the same initial reaction, but to be fair, and knowing a bit about how hard it is to deliver some of the features we take for granted, it is regardless an amazing job. The complexity involved in figuring out and manipulating the emulated EEPROM contents, such as the flash counter stuff, is by itself really impressive. We've seen so much news and stuff recently that our expectations are just too high and nothing may further impress us. it is kind of similar in respect to smartphones and their advancement.

[BuLoOoSki]

Originally Posted by CaryTheLabelGuy

As of right now, yes. OBD unlock is in closed beta and you need to have a BM3 license and send PTF a tech ticket from their website asking to be included in the closed beta (so they can enable it on your BM3 account).

You’ll also need a ENET cable and a windows laptop (for now).

Actually you can also use the Agent device and use your phone to flash. But you have to access the BM3 webpage using the phone's browser, and not the BM3 app.

[///F80M3]

At this point i don't know why someone would choose another flash tune instead of bootmod3. Doesn't make any sense lol. Just the customer support alone makes it a no brainer!!

[BuLoOoSki]

Originally Posted by aboulfad

@nars3000 , thanks for the recap of BM3 features. I am familiar with most of it, I was just curious what NEW game changer feature that sets BM3 from the pack. Personally and hypothetically, if I ever will tune my car, BM3 is the best offering out there, especially for the DIYers/curious types.

And I've read the OP few times, maybe it's the flashing speed, ENET cable and flash counter features? Which some BTW were demoed by another vendor. I may have downplayed the importance of those as the jury is out how important are the various "tune detection camouflage" techniques... Anyways, and regardless it is a nice new update to this platform

You are right to ask what the game changer is here. But as many have said, it's the combination of all those features and the convenience that the BM3 suite offers. OBD Unlock has been out for over a month now correct, but one of the key things here is the super fast flashing times using the same platform and ENET cable without needing any special third party cables. There is only one other competitor that offers unlock without using the Frieling cable, but to flash with their tool you are looking at around 35-40mins for single DME F-series cars (and double that for the M5). Not only is that a major inconvenience, but it also means you HAVE to have a charger/PSU connected. And since the F8X has a lithium battery, to get the proper PSU for it you are looking to spend $300-400 on a PSU.

The automation of the entire process is also something that deserves to be given credit to. Activation, receiving your first map, getting updates, flashing, etc is all fully automated. No wait times to get your map because it has to be manually created, and no worries of getting map updates in time. You see some tuners who do make an update to their map either send those update as per request basis (and having the customer wait quite a bit of time before they get it), or charge for the new revision/update because it is so time consuming and labor intensive. Try imagining if that had to be done manually to create new maps for your customers if you had a 1000? I know for a fact that its so time consuming that one particular tuner using the Frieling cable for his tool doesn't even provide customers with the stock map a long with the tuned map because he simply doesn't have the time to do so. He gives it on a per request basis.

The automation also extends to the flashing process. There is no need to manually backup coding before flashing and then reapply coding after a flash. It is all done for you automatically. I think there is a customer using a Frieling tool who already bumped into this problem because he forgot to backup his coding. Mind you the instructions for that customer clearly stated that step, but by having it automated is a major convenience and makes the process more fool proof.

Regarding the flash counter stuff, not that I care at all about that feature personally, but the demo video you are referring to is of no good if customers can't benefit from that feature No vendor currently offers flash counter freeze for their customers (even those who know how to do it). Plus, not sure if any of those vendors managed to do it successfully on a running car and not just a benched DME. In addition to flash counter freeze, PTF has managed to freeze your last flash date. i.e. the last flash date stamp remains the same to whatever date your car was last flashed on from the dealership/factory. I don't believe any vendor has done that. But again, personally I don't care about that, but credit has to be given.

[CaryTheLabelGuy]

Originally Posted by BuLoOoSki

Actually you can also use the Agent device and use your phone to flash. But you have to access the BM3 webpage using the phone's browser, and not the BM3 app.

I need to verify that. DZenno said during the closed-beta, we had to use Windows only for now.

[BuLoOoSki]

Originally Posted by CaryTheLabelGuy

I need to verify that. DZenno said during the closed-beta, we had to use Windows only for now.

Always good to be sure, but you should be able to update the agent device to the latest version and be good to go using the browser on your phone.

[BuLoOoSki]

Originally Posted by ///F80M3

At this point i don't know why someone would choose another flash tune instead of bootmod3. Doesn't make any sense lol. Just the customer support alone makes it a no brainer!!

Agreed. There are some companies out there with great customer service as well, but I haven't seen anything like Dzenno's customer service. His dedication and support is on another level.

[CaryTheLabelGuy]

Originally Posted by BuLoOoSki

You are right to ask what the game changer is here. But as many have said, it's the combination of all those features and the convenience that the BM3 suite offers. OBD Unlock has been out for over a month now correct, but one of the key things here is the super fast flashing times using the same platform and ENET cable without needing any special third party cables. There is only one other competitor that offers unlock without using the Frieling cable, but to flash with their tool you are looking at around 35-40mins for single DME F-series cars (and double that for the M5). Not only is that a major inconvenience, but it also means you HAVE to have a charger/PSU connected. And since the F8X has a lithium battery, to get the proper PSU for it you are looking to spend $300-400 on a PSU.

The automation of the entire process is also something that deserves to be given credit to. Activation, receiving your first map, getting updates, flashing, etc is all fully automated. No wait times to get your map because it has to be manually created, and no worries of getting map updates in time. You see some tuners who do make an update to their map either send those update as per request basis (and having the customer wait quite a bit of time before they get it), or charge for the new revision/update because it is so time consuming and labor intensive. Try imagining if that had to be done manually to create new maps for your customers if you had a 1000? I know for a fact that its so time consuming that one particular tuner using the Frieling cable for his tool doesn't even provide customers with the stock map a long with the tuned map because he simply doesn't have the time to do so. He gives it on a per request basis.

The automation also extends to the flashing process. There is no need to manually backup coding before flashing and then reapply coding after a flash. It is all done for you automatically. I think there is a customer using a Frieling tool who already bumped into this problem because he forgot to backup his coding. Mind you the instructions for that customer clearly stated that step, but by having it automated is a major convenience and makes the process more fool proof.

Regarding the flash counter stuff, not that I care at all about that feature personally, but the demo video you are referring to is of no good if customers can't benefit from that feature No vendor currently offers flash counter freeze for their customers (even those who know how to do it). Plus, not sure if any of those vendors managed to do it successfully on a running car and not just a benched DME. In addition to flash counter freeze, PTF has managed to freeze your last flash date. i.e. the last flash date stamp remains the same to whatever date your car was last flashed on from the dealership/factory. I don't believe any vendor has done that. But again, personally I don't care about that, but credit has to be given.

This is a good run-down on what makes this BM3 update so special. Thanks for taking the time to write it out.

I started to write something similar but I’m just too slammed with tuning and getting people up-to-speed and ready for the new features that I had to abort my essay a few times. Lol.

Big ups to the PTF crew for making this a reality. The platform is advancing very fast right now and we are in very exciting territory.