Why cant onstar upgrade analog only systems to digital?

Question

Why cant onstar upgrade analog only systems to digital?

Answer 1

Revised January 4, 2008

Important Information about the Analog-to-Digital Transition

OnStar service was launched in 1996 using proven analog technology, which had the broadest geographic coverage of the available cellular network alternatives at the time. Usage of analog technology enabled us to evolve into the most comprehensive in-vehicle communications provider offering safety, security and peace of mind to millions of vehicle owners.

Because OnStar connected to the proven analog network, our technology helped ensure that if an airbag deployed in the U.S. or Canada, the vehicle would be connected using the cellular network with the largest geographical coverage available. Since we signed up our first subscriber in 1996, OnStar has assisted subscribers and others in more than 5 million emergency situations, including airbag deployment notifications, remote door unlock requests, roadside assistance, good samaritan, and other emergency calls. We are proud of OnStar's societal contribution, which not only has been widely recognized by our subscribers, but by the emergency response and medical communities as well.

However, based on a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling, cellular carriers, including the carriers on whose networks OnStar depends for the delivery of OnStar services, will no longer support analog service on a national basis. Without the analog network, we can't ensure the coverage that will allow us to provide subscribers, with analog equipment, the services they expect from us. As a result, beginning January 1, 2008, OnStar service in the United States and Canada will be available only through vehicles that are capable of operating on the digital cellular network.

We at OnStar sincerely regret that we will not be able to provide OnStar service to vehicles with analog equipment after December 31, 2007.

Go this site and fill out the form if you have Onstar.

https://www.myonstar.com/adt.os

Answer 2

I found this link that may offer some information about OnStar upgrades. Hope it will help,,,

LINK:http://www.cadillacfaq.com/stsfaq/tsb/da...

Answer 3

check with your dealer. a friend of mine who works at a dealer told me that there is a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) telling service techs how to switch it over. I do not know if he was right or wrong but call any GM dealer and see what they say.