Uniden Releases New Firmware for R-Series Radars and BCD160DN/260DN Scanners
News related to:Uniden America Corporation · 3 min read
FLOWER MOUND, TX, UNITED STATES, October 9, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Uniden America Corporation has announced firmware updates for select R-Series radar detectors and the BCD160DN and BCD260DN scanners, adding new capabilities that will be showcased at SEMA 2026. These updates are aimed at enhancing user experience and addressing the diverse needs of drivers and enthusiasts.
The new firmware for the R-Series radar detectors includes a feature called Ka Block Controls, which offers users more options to fine-tune their detector's response to signals. This update is available for the R4, R4w, R8, and R8w models, extending the new functionality to both current and previous-generation R-Series products. According to Uniden, the new Ka Block setting provides four configuration options: Weak, Mute, adjustable levels from 0.5 through 3.5, and Low Priority (-P).
- Weak: Within the user-set frequency range, signals at 2 bars or below do not generate an alert. At 2.5 bars and above, the detector alerts normally. - Mute: Signals within the configured frequency range continue to generate an on-screen alert without an audible alert tone. - Level 0.5-3.5: Users can select a sensitivity threshold. Signals at or below the selected level are not reported audibly or visually; signals above that level are reported normally. - Low Priority (-P): Signals within the user-defined frequency range are assigned a lower reporting priority than signals detected outside that range. The setting does not mute, reduce, or block those alerts.
Uniden has also updated R/TACH™ for iOS and Android and PC Tool version 2.26 to support the new R-Series settings. Additionally, the company has released an updated R-Series tool for macOS, expanding compatibility to Apple silicon-based Macs (non-Intel) while continuing support for Intel-based Macs. The release builds on the existing Intel-compatible tool and brings a stable R-Series configuration experience to users of newer Mac systems.
For the BCD160DN and BCD260DN scanners, Uniden has introduced a new firmware update that enables these models to decode non-encrypted APCO P25 Phase I and Phase II digital voice transmissions. This update is available to current and future owners of the BCD160DN and BCD260DN. The update does not include P25 trunk tracking; the scanners can receive transmissions from P25 trunked systems but do not track talkgroup IDs (TGIDs) or follow calls as they move across frequencies within a trunked system. Users can manually enter the required information to decode individual non-encrypted P25 Phase I and Phase II digital voice channels.
The firmware update for the BCD160DN and BCD260DN requires BCDx60DN Scanner Software Version 2.00 or later. Owners can install the firmware using the Uniden BC-VUP Firmware Updater. After the firmware update, configuration requires BCDx60DN Scanner Software Version 2.00 or later. The updater and configuration software require Windows.
Uniden America Corporation is expanding its presence in enthusiast communities by engaging with the communities that use its products. The company has increased its focus on public safety, weather, aviation, racing, rail, and more, where access to radio communications can add information and context to activities enthusiasts already follow. Uniden has also begun featuring enthusiast-submitted rigs and setups on Instagram, giving customers a way to show how they use and integrate Uniden products while highlighting the knowledge and creativity within the community.
At SEMA 2026, Uniden will showcase its work with North American automotive integration and installation partner MSC, including professional installation and premium vehicle integration. The company will also continue developing its Driven by Purpose ambassador program with creators and enthusiasts from the communities it serves. Visitors can look forward to booth giveaways and other opportunities to connect with the Uniden team throughout the show. SEMA will also give Uniden an opportunity to discuss its direction and priorities for 2027.