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It seemed to have been set in stone for years: Bosch keeps its doors shut and hardly lets any third-party suppliers into its e-bike system. What continues to be the case with batteries is now changing with the displays and the presentation of riding data. Although Bosch e-bikes will continue to come exclusively with Bosch displays, information from the motor software can now optionally be displayed on GPS computers or other third-party devices. The long-awaited open interface is here. In the Bosch universe, this is called the "Live Data Interface".
The Live Data Interface is a free, open interface that opens up new possibilities for Bosch riders. Instead of having to rely exclusively on Bosch's own displays, users of the smart system can now connect their favourite devices to the e-bike. The technology is based on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and enables the seamless transfer of live riding data to compatible third-party devices.
Compatible devices and future developments
In the first step, selected Garmin Edge bike computer the first compatible devices to benefit from the new interface. It should not be long before Garmin officially introduces this function. But this is just the beginning: in future, other devices such as fitness watches, smart glasses and intelligent helmets will be able to receive the smart system's driving data.
Live data in real time: this information is transmitted
The Bosch Live Data Interface provides a wide range of riding data. This includes performance-related values such as the current speed, the rider's power in watts and the cadence. At the same time, important system data such as the percentage battery charge level, the total distance travelled and the status of the eBike Lock anti-theft protection system are transmitted. This comprehensive data provision enables riders to keep an eye on all relevant information on their favourite device.
Garmin Edge: Perfect integration for ambitious eBikers
Garmin is the first partner to enable the connection of selected Edge bike computers with the Bosch smart system. The compatibility includes the Edge 550, 850 and 1050 models as well as the Edge 540, 840 and 1040 - all advanced GPS bike computers with numerous performance features. The robust Garmin Edge MTB is also one of the supported devices.
For ambitious e-bikers, this integration means that they receive precise performance values for optimal training and can control their training zones directly on their usual device. The complete ride data collection can be seamlessly integrated into existing Garmin ecosystems, which is particularly attractive for users who already use other Garmin products.
Advantages of the open interface in detail
The open architecture of the Live Data Interface offers numerous advantages. First and foremost is maximum personalisation: e-bikers decide for themselves which device they want to use and thus retain full control over their individual setup. This freedom of choice is a significant improvement on the previously closed system.
Technical integration and requirements
To be able to use the Bosch Live Data Interface, an e-bike with the smart system from Bosch is required. In addition, a compatible Garmin Edge bike computer or other supported devices will be required in the future. It is also important to install the latest software version, both on the end device and on the e-system, to ensure full functionality.
For those who have concerns about data protection: E-bikers will continue to decide for themselves whether and which device or app they want to connect to their e-bike. This means that the user retains full control over all data.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
