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> I don't know if they are used to neophytes being unable to handle this and think they are doing a service or if it's a push to get people to connect/sync as much as possible.

Likely doing it to remove any frustrations from the brand new buyer being unable to figure out how to set it all up. The last thing you need is someone changing their mind about the car they just bought, because well if setting up the app is a PITA, what else is terrible about the car?

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The main problem I had with it is the fact it requires an app in the first place. Once they have an app on your phone, they have access to so much data. The app by nature of the functions it performs will need GPS, Bluetooth, and Contacts at a minimum. Once they have that access, there's nothing stopping them from using it for whatever they want. That's just absolutely not something I'm willing to give a car app. Do we really think their map/routing app will be better than something else I could use instead? I don't even like using map apps because of their power to snoop and report.
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There's no app requirement to use the car, only the app features.
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wow, did you read too much into that one my friend. of course it's not needed for using the car. it's needed to use the in dash mapping feature.
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Okay so I read your comment to say you didn’t want their mapping service so assumed it was more broad. My bad.

That being said, on re-reading the Toyota app does not require location/Bluetooth/Contacts to set up.

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according to some guys on r/askcarsales the manufacturers have required KPIs for onboarding app users so they just have to do it.
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I assume any dealer who's comfortable signing a contract (terms of service) on your behalf is comfortable with you signing a contract on their behalf. Time to write yourself a new car.
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