Tech Users: Lowrance GPS Update 25.1 marks a significant advancement in marine electronics, further solidifying Lowrance’s position as a leader in sonar and navigation technology. This powerful firmware release brings a host of enhancements for displays and sonar modules, ensuring increased precision, performance, and reliability for both recreational boaters and professional anglers alike.
The 25.1 update introduces improved chart performance, expanded sonar module integration, enhanced ActiveTarget 2 support, and a range of refinements that maximise on-water efficiency. Users of HDS PRO, Elite FS, and HOOK Reveal displays stand to benefit the most from this transformative upgrade.
Optimised Chart Performance for Seamless Navigation
With Lowrance GPS Update 25.1, chart redraw speeds have been significantly accelerated, particularly on the HDS PRO series. This enables smoother zooming and panning, improving situational awareness when navigating complex waterways.
Additionally, Genesis Live charting features now deliver greater contour detail and enhanced layer customisation, providing more intuitive real-time mapping functionality. For users navigating high-detail coastal or inland areas, this represents a noticeable improvement in usability and speed.
Key Chart Performance Features:
- Faster chart redraw times for HDS PRO
- Improved vector chart loading and rendering
- Genesis Live enhancements for depth shading
- Support for high-resolution C-MAP Reveal imagery
Advanced Sonar Module Support
The Lowrance 25.1 update further refines its compatibility with the S3100 sonar module, designed for dual-channel CHIRP functionality. The update ensures smoother transitions between sonar channels, delivering an optimised underwater view in various fishing scenarios.
Active Imaging HD and FishReveal technologies now process more efficiently, providing crisper returns, especially in deeper or more cluttered environments. This results in clearer target separation, making it easier to identify fish versus structure or debris.
Sonar Module Improvements Include:
- Better integration with S3100 dual-channel CHIRP sonar
- Faster ping rate adjustments for Active Imaging HD
- Refined FishReveal logic for sharper fish targets
- Upgraded bottom-lock and depth-tracking accuracy
Enhanced ActiveTarget 2 Capabilities
The update significantly strengthens ActiveTarget 2 live sonar, with refinements that improve target definition, lag reduction, and forward/Scout/Down view transitions. Anglers can now experience near-zero latency tracking, giving them a real-time edge in high-stakes fishing environments.
Additionally, this firmware refines how ActiveTarget 2 integrates with multiple transducers. Users operating multi-sensor setups across larger vessels will notice a marked improvement in cross-device synchronisation and sonar data accuracy.
ActiveTarget 2 Enhancements:
- Sharper live sonar imaging
- Enhanced detail in Forward, Scout, and Down views
- Optimised multi-transducer synchronisation
- Reduced lag and improved sonar refresh rate
Display Interface Refinements and UI Performance
The Update 25.1 rollout has improved not only the backend performance but also the user interface (UI) responsiveness across supported Lowrance displays. Menus load faster, settings apply with minimal delay, and touchscreen gestures are smoother, especially on HDS PRO units.
Notable additions include customisable split-screen layouts, expanded widget options, and clearer iconography to assist in low-visibility or high-glare conditions. These refinements contribute to a more intuitive experience, particularly useful during fast-paced operations on the water.
Interface and Usability Upgrades:
- Faster UI responsiveness and touchscreen performance
- New split-screen customisation tools
- Enhanced icon clarity and labelling
- Improved daylight readability with dynamic contrast adjustments
Improved Networking & System Integration
Lowrance 25.1 brings vital improvements to Ethernet and NMEA 2000 networking protocols. Devices on the same vessel network now exhibit faster data sharing, reduced packet loss, and enhanced compatibility across radar, sonar, and engine modules.
For users employing Ghost trolling motors or Power-Pole shallow water anchors, the update ensures more stable and responsive control through the display interface. Furthermore, software synchronisation across networked devices is now more seamless, enabling simplified fleet or vessel management.
Networking and Connectivity Enhancements:
- Enhanced Ethernet bandwidth management
- Faster NMEA 2000 device detection
- Improved engine and autopilot data sync
- Refined Ghost and Power-Pole integration
Support for New Accessories and Compatibility Updates
Update 25.1 extends support for upcoming hardware, including future transducers, accessories, and third-party integrations. It prepares displays for new Active Imaging modules and optimises compatibility with upcoming C-MAP chart layers. This ensures users remain at the cutting edge of marine electronics without needing to overhaul their existing systems.
The update also introduces firmware-level diagnostics, helping identify connection or device errors quickly. This facilitates more reliable support outcomes, and aids in faster onboard troubleshooting.
Expanded Compatibility Highlights:
- Prepares systems for new Active Imaging accessories
- Supports new-generation C-MAP Reveal and Contour+
- Adds firmware-level diagnostics and error reporting
- Improves third-party integration frameworks
How to Install the Lowrance Update 25.1
Installing the 25.1 update is straightforward. Users can either:
- Download the update via Lowrance’s website and install via SD card
- Use the Lowrance Companion App to wirelessly update compatible devices
- It is recommended to back up waypoints and user data prior to the update. Once installed, systems may take a few minutes to initialise and optimise post-update.
Steps for Update Installation:
- Visit the official Lowrance software update page
- Download the correct 25.1 update file for your device
- Transfer to a blank SD card (32GB or smaller, FAT32 formatted)
- Insert into device, and follow on-screen installation prompts
- Restart and validate update through the About or System Info menu
Conclusion: A Definitive Upgrade for Any Lowrance User
Lowrance GPS Update 25.1 represents a major leap in the evolution of marine electronics software. From significantly faster chart redraws to vastly improved sonar clarity and network integration, every component of the angling and navigation experience has been fine-tuned. Whether you’re a coastal cruiser, competitive angler, or weekend fisherman, this update provides robust tools to maximise efficiency, safety, and fish-finding success.
By embracing the Update 25.1 enhancements, users ensure their systems remain not only future-ready but also optimised for current marine demands. Lowrance continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the water, and 25.1 is a testament to that commitment
