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What is Firmware and how do you Update it?

This article explains what Dash Cam firmware is and why updates matter, shows how to check your version and update it via SD card, MyNextbase Player, or the app, and offers tips if updates fail or the Dash Cam resets.

Why update firmware?

Firmware updates improve your Dash Cam with:

  • New features

  • Bug fixes

  • New language support

  • Better app connections

Always use the latest version to avoid issues from outdated firmware.

How do I check my firmware version?

  1. Go to Setup > System Info in the Dash Cam menu.

  2. Note the version (starts with "R", e.g., R12.6).

  3. Visit your model's support page.

  4. Update if your version differs from the latest listed.

How do I update firmware?

Method 1: SD card (PC/Mac) - Most common

  1. Visit your model's support page.

  2. Download the latest firmware (.bin file).

  3. Format the SD card on your computer.

  4. Remove the SD card from the Dash Cam, insert it into an SD card reader connected to your computer, and copy the .bin file to the root directory. Ensure the file is not placed inside any folder.

  5. Insert the SD card into the powered-off Dash Cam.

  6. Plug it into power; the update will start automatically.

  7. Ensure the camera is connected to a power supply throughout the update.

When connected to a computer via USB, the Dash Cam mounts in read-only mode. This prevents copying firmware files directly to the SD card and may result in errors or a "no entry" symbol. To update firmware, always remove the SD card and use a card reader connected to your computer.

Method 2: MyNextbase Player (Series 2 only)

  1. Install MyNextbase Player.

  2. Connect the dash cam to the computer via a USB cable.

  3. Select Firmware Update on the Dash Cam screen.

  4. Click Update Dash Cam in MyNextbase Player.

Method 3: Nextbase App (Series 2 Wi-Fi models only)

  1. Open the Nextbase App and power on the camera.

  2. Make sure the camera is showing as 'Connected' on the homepage of the app.

  3. The App will search for any necessary updates and will prompt you to update if any newer versions are found.

Note: If Keep User Settings is ON, Dash Cam boots normally. If OFF, complete first-time setup after update. SD card files unaffected.

Extra tips

  • Back up any needed SD card files before an update.

  • Keep User Settings ON if you would like to keep customised settings after an update.- The Nextbase 320XR is not compatible with the Nextbase mobile apps. These models are not compatible with the mobile app and Wi-Fi connectivity, so they will not appear in the app’s camera list and cannot be connected. If you require app features, consider using a compatible model, such as the Nextbase 322 or other models that specify app/Wi-Fi compatibility.- To restore default settings after an update: Stop recording by tapping the flashing red square, tap the settings (cogwheel) icon, select "Setup," choose "Default Settings," and confirm by tapping "Yes" and "OK." The dash cam will restart automatically, resetting all settings to factory defaults.

Troubleshooting

  • Update doesn't start (SD card): Reformat the SD card using a PC/Laptop, re-download the .bin file, and ensure the Dash Cam is powered off when inserting.

  • "No update available" (MyNextbase Player): Confirm the USB is connected directly to the Dash Cam (not mounted), and select the Firmware Update screen first.

  • App update (Nextbase App): Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled on the phone and not connected to any other Wi-Fi networks; disable VPN/antivirus.

  • Dash Cam resets to setup after update: Normal if Keep User Settings OFF; complete the setup process.

  • Stuck mid-update: Do not unplug; wait 10 minutes. If frozen, repeat with a fresh SD card/firmware file.- Connectivity troubleshooting: Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled on your phone and not connected to other networks. Disable VPN or antivirus software if issues persist. Retry pairing after completing a firmware update.- Missing settings menu: Stop recording by tapping the red record button, as settings are only accessible when recording is paused. If the settings icon remains unresponsive, perform a reset by pressing and holding the reset button until the dash cam restarts.

  • Write-protection issues: If the SD card appears write-protected or you cannot copy files, try ejecting and reconnecting the card. Alternatively, use a different SD card reader or adapter.

  • USB read-only issue: When connected via USB, the Dash Cam mounts in read-only mode. Please select the update firmware option on your dash cam if this appears on the dash cam's screen.

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