Garmin Charplotters Pre-2019 Safety Issue?

[CaptTom]

Do you have a Garmin chartplotter which hasn't been updated since 2019? There may be a safety issue with your firmware.

I just got off a tech support chat with Garmin. My two GPSMap chartplotters were last updated in 2019, which is the most recent firmware update available.

Garmin added support for AIS virtual ATONs after this version.

The US Coast Guard is actively replacing physical buoys with AIS virtual ATONs in many areas. This means you won't see the "buoy" on your new charts, even if your plotter is receiving AIS data.

The technician promised to submit a request to fix this safety issue. They said this has been done in the past, so it's not impossible.

My hope is that if enough of us call or chat with Garmin support, and frame it as a safety issue, it might get more traction with their support team.

If you have an affected Garmin, and would like a firmware update for this feature, please take the time to call or go to their on-line support chat and convey your concerns. Thank you!

[Oldwheels]

Oh come on, virtual buoy?????? A step toooooo far.

[barnakiel]

And how will this buoy be seen by a sailor without a smartphone ?


Is this not = governmental digital buying ?


well


b.