When this applies
Use this article when you need to:
Update the firmware using the Nextbase App.
Update the firmware manually using an SD card.
Check which firmware version your Dash Cam is running.
Troubleshoot a firmware update.
This information applies to the 385GWX and 385GW Dash Cam.
Process / information
Update using the Nextbase App
Make sure your Dash Cam is paired with the Nextbase App.
Open the Nextbase App with your Dash Cam powered on and connected.
If a firmware update is available, the app will notify you.
Select Install Now. The new firmware will begin downloading to the Nextbase App.
Keep your Dash Cam powered during the update and do not disconnect it until the process is complete.
Update manually using an SD card
Visit the official Nextbase Download Center and locate the firmware for your Dash Cam model.
Download the latest firmware file to your computer.
If the file is in ZIP format, extract it to access the firmware file.
If the download does not start:
Use a different browser or clear your browser cache.
Check that antivirus software, a VPN or firewall is not blocking the download.
Alternatively, request the firmware file directly and follow the installation instructions provided in the manual or PDF.
Insert your SD card into your computer using an SD card reader.
Back up any important recordings, as formatting will erase all data.
Format the SD card.
On Windows:
Open File Explorer.
Right-click the SD card.
Select Format.
On Mac:
Open Finder.
Locate the SD card.
Select Format.
Use:
FAT32 for cards up to 32 GB.
exFAT for cards larger than 32 GB.
Ensure Quick Format is selected and start the process.
Copy the downloaded firmware file to the root directory of the SD card, not inside a folder.
Do not open or rename the .bin file.
Safely eject the SD card and insert it into the Dash Cam while it is powered off.
Connect the Dash Cam to a power source and turn it on. The update will start automatically. A red LED may flash quickly during the update.
Do not remove the SD card or disconnect the power during the update. The Dash Cam may restart during the process.
Once the update is complete, format the SD card again using the Dash Cam's settings menu before regular use.
What happens during an update
After 1-2 minutes, the Dash Cam may turn itself off and the LEDs on the front Dash Cam will start to flash.
After a further 1-2 minutes, the Dash Cam will restart and power back on.
To confirm the Dash Cam has updated, access the Nextbase App and locate the Dash Cam settings to find the firmware version.
Troubleshooting firmware update issues
If you are having trouble updating through the Nextbase App:
Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled on your phone.
Close the Nextbase App and reopen it after around 10 seconds.
Turn off any VPN during the update.
Disconnect from other Wi-Fi networks, such as your home Wi-Fi.
Disable automatic Wi-Fi reconnection.
Disconnect your phone from Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
Go to Settings > Apps > Nextbase App > Permissions and turn on all requested permissions, such as Location, Nearby Devices, Local Network and Notifications.
If you are having trouble updating using an SD card:
Verify that you downloaded the correct firmware for your Dash Cam model.
Ensure the .bin file is in the root directory of the SD card.
Reformat the SD card and copy the firmware file again.
Check that the firmware file has not been renamed.
If the issue continues, try using a freshly formatted SD card and download the firmware file again.
Check for firmware updates every 2-3 months to ensure your Dash Cam remains up to date with the latest improvements and features.
What to expect
During the update, the Dash Cam may turn itself off and the LEDs on the front Dash Cam may start to flash.
After a further 1-2 minutes, the Dash Cam will restart and power back on.
You can confirm the firmware version through the Dash Cam settings in the Nextbase App.
Still need help?
If the firmware update does not complete, follow the relevant troubleshooting steps above.