Reports have begun to surface (read: erupt) that the latest GPS update for the Garmin nüvi 7x5 series of GPS navigation devices is bricking the units.

Many users report having plugged in their GPS to their computers to receive a mysterious “GPS Chipset Type M” update, which seemed to do nothing. Then, days later (nearly all of them yesterday, June 22, 2009), their units prompted them to perform a “GPS Update” in the middle of driving. Following that brief process, the unit is then no longer able to acquire satellites, and eventually will not even turn on.

At first the issue seemed to be limited to the 765T device, but later reports confirm that at least a few 785T and even 755T devices were also affected. Now it is speculated that the problem may be specific to the MediaTek chipset used in these specific units.

No one currently knows how widespread the problem is, but judging by the cascading horror stories on such enthusiast websites as GPSReview and GPSPassion, it certainly doesn’t look good at the moment for Garmin.

A report from one user summarizing the experience:

A little before 8 pm ET on Monday, June 22, 2009 while driving in my car a message appeared on my 765T stating: "Updating GPS software". I waited until it was done and then pressed OK. The 765T then began "Searching for Satellites". I arrived at my destination with the 765T still "Searching for Satellites". I parked my car, turned off the 765T and went to my meeting.

About an hour later I got back into my car and the 765T would not power up. I have spent most of the evening trying to get the 765T to power up. I have plugged it into my computer via the USB cable. I have plugged it into the AC charger. I have held the on switch in the on position numerous times for 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 60 seconds. I've tried turning it on while pressing on the lower right corner of the screen. Nothing has worked.

The 765T will not power on.

Coincidence? I don't think so.

P.S. I do not have MSN.

Your humble editor just purchased a 755T last week, and even after having updated it, I have not yet experienced the issue (you can hear me knocking on wood through your computer monitor).

Another user points to this interesting (coincidental?) report, though it seems likely to be unrelated:

A software bug resident in a wide range of multi-mode GPS receivers (MMR) built by Rockwell Collins could cause datalink and other problems during the chronological transition from 20 to 21 June, cautions the European Aviation Safety Agency.

Garmin has reportedly corresponded with many users about sending their units in for RMA, but at the shipping expense of the customer.

Have you experienced this issue? Let us know in the comments your story, including your unit model number, and we’ll update our article as the day continues and more information becomes available.

UPDATE (1:01 PM EST):

It seems possible that V8 units do not exhibit this behavior.  You can find your unit version (at your own risk) by entering the diagnostics screen on your device.  To do this, press and hold your finger over the time in the upper-right corner of the device for several seconds.  Then, reference the top line of text on the screen.  Note the number after the letter "V": "7" or "8".

To this end, we want to know if you own a V8 unit and have experienced the problem.  If so, please tell us in the comments section below! Your participation will help us all get to the bottom of this issue.

UPDATE (JUNE 25):

Also, thanks to Billy in the comments section below!

Garmin has released an official statement on the matter, as well as a solution/corrected firmware:

Today, Garmin released a free, mandatory GPS software update to correct a software issue that has been discovered to cause the nuvi 7x5 devices to repeatedly attempt to update GPS firmware, and then either shut down or no longer acquire GPS satellite signals.

Garmin nüvi 7x5 series products that are no longer able to acquire a GPS satellite signal may download a firmware update immediately that will correct the software issue. This firmware update may be downloaded using Garmin's WebUpdater program.

Garmin nüvi 7x5 customers who are no longer able to power on their GPS device will need to visit www.garmin.com/support, and select the first FAQ titled "My nüvi 755T, 765T, 775T or 785T is giving me the message 'Updating GPS Firmware' or will no longer power on..." Customers will then need to follow the instructions to request a return authorization so that the device may be repaired under warranty.

We know our customers rely upon their Garmin GPS device(s), especially during the summer travel season, and we regret any inconvenience this situation may have caused. We are committed to developing products that are known for their quality and reliability and will continue to work diligently to earn the trust of our customers.