Shimano transitioning away from support for E8000?

[RickBullotta]

It's interesting that the E8000 didn't get a firmware update in the last batch of eTube updates that were to support the new batteries and display.

FIRMWARE UPDATES | E-TUBE PROJECT | E-TUBE | E-TUBE PROJECT-EU

The published information on the E-TUBE PROJECT firmware (release notes) is provided below. Please see the latest firmware update information.

e-tubeproject.shimano.com

 

[Gary]

That's a pretty huge conclusion to jump to from no actual evidence.

Firmware is rarely ever rolled out across the entire range of Steps/Di2 components at the same date.

The new batteries and displays are not necessarily destined to be used with E8000s

 

[Zimmerframe]

Don't forget that the latest thok has the 625 and the e8000

 

[RickBullotta]

I'm not disagreeing with you Gary, but a firmware update for every other Shimano MTB drive system hit that day. It just "smells" a bit odd.

Maybe they secretly slipped in support for the new batteries in the September 2, 2019 update so that OEMs could get to work? I dunno.

I'm not suggesting anything other than, "it doesn't make sense".

 

[Gary]

 

[highpeakrider]

Can’t remember last time I updated mine, I just go out and ride, at this stage I doubt any will provide a performance updat.

 

[iXi]

Maybe the e8000 already supported bigger batteries? Mine already does although it's not a shimano branded battery.

 

[OldGoatMTB]

I'm not concerned. They could never put out a firmware update for it again, as far as I'm concerned. But I think you're reading something into a situation that probably isn't there. There are too many e8000 motors out there, and still shipping, for them to drop support.

 

[Gary]

TBF Shimano still support canti brakes and 5 speed drivetrains.
so thinking they're about to drop support because of an update to other motors is a little naive

 

[AverageJoeMTB]

I think there is a difference between dropping support and stopping development. It's not dropping support any time soon as it's still being sold but they might be focusing on newer motors. If the firmware supports everything needed and there isn't any glaring bugs that need resolving then the current firmware doesn't need an upgrade.