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Semtech (formerly Sierra Wireless) has issued an important product bulletin that affects customers using AirLink Manager (AM) and AirLink Mobility Manager (AMM). If you are running an on-premise deployment, the AirLink Manager 2.18 upgrade is required before May 31, 2026 to avoid a significant disruption in map-related functionality.
Because this change directly impacts tracking, reporting, and geographic features within the platform, we want to make sure all affected customers are aware and prepared.
What Is Changing?
Google has announced it will deprecate Client ID authentication for Google Maps on May 31, 2026. This authentication method is currently used by:
- AirLink Manager (AM)
- AirLink Mobility Manager (AMM)
- Versions 2.17.6.1 and older
These versions rely on Client ID authentication to power map-based features inside the management platform.
Once Google disables this authentication method, older AM/AMM versions will no longer be able to properly access Google Maps services.
What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade?
If you are running AM or AMM version 2.17.6.1 or earlier and do not complete the AirLink Manager 2.18 upgrade before the May 31, 2026 deadline, nearly all map-related features will stop functioning.
This includes:
- Tracker functionality
- Reports that utilize geographic data
- Address lookup
- Map visualizations
- Many other geographic-based tools
For organizations that rely on fleet tracking, asset visibility, or location-based reporting, this could represent a major operational disruption.
The platform itself will still run, but its mapping capabilities will be severely limited or entirely non-functional.
Who Needs to Take Action?
On-Premise AM / AMM Customers
If you are running your own on-premise AirLink Manager or AirLink Mobility Manager server, action is required.
You must upgrade to AMM 2.18 before May 31, 2026.
Semtech has indicated that upgrades are expected to begin the first week of March 2026. Because this change affects many customers, it is strongly recommended that you get into the upgrade queue early to avoid delays as the deadline approaches.
Hosted AMM Customers
If you are using a hosted AMM deployment managed by Semtech, no action is required.
Semtech will handle your upgrade automatically.
If you are unsure whether your deployment is hosted or on-premise, now is a good time to verify your environment.
How to Prepare for the AirLink Manager 2.18 Upgrade
To ensure a smooth transition, here are the recommended next steps:
- Open a Support Ticket with Semtech
Visit www.sierrawireless.com/support to request assistance and secure your place in the upgrade queue. - Plan Ahead for Scheduling
Upgrades are expected to begin in March 2026. Depending on your deployment size and internal change management processes, you may need advance planning. - Self-Upgrade Users Still Need Support
Even if you are using the self-upgrade path available in version 2.17.6.1, you must contact Semtech Support to acquire the necessary upgrade keys.
Waiting until the last minute could result in scheduling bottlenecks or extended downtime risk.
What’s Included in AMM 2.18?
While the Google Maps authentication migration is the primary driver behind this required update, the AirLink Manager 2.18 upgrade also introduces new functionality.
AMM 2.18 includes the first phase of AirLink OS router support for:
- XR60
- XR80
- XR90
- RX55 Wi-Fi Plus models
- Devices Running AirLink OS v5.3
This expansion of AirLink OS support is particularly important for organizations deploying newer-generation AirLink routers. If you are rolling out or planning to roll out XR-series hardware, this update positions your management platform for compatibility moving forward.
In other words, this upgrade is not just about compliance with Google’s authentication changes, it also helps future-proof your deployment.
Why This Matters for Fleet and IoT Deployments
Many AirLink customers depend on map-based visibility for:
- Public safety fleets
- Transportation and logistics
- Utilities and field services
- Industrial IoT deployments
- Enterprise mobile networking
Losing Tracker or geographic reporting capabilities can impact operational awareness, response times, compliance reporting, and overall network visibility.
The Google Maps authentication change is outside of Semtech’s control, but the solution (upgrading to AMM 2.18) ensures continuity of service.
Proactive upgrades are always preferable to emergency remediation after a feature stops working.
Timeline at a Glance
- Now: Open a support ticket and plan your upgrade
- March 2026: Expected start of upgrade scheduling
- May 31, 2026: Google deprecates Client ID authentication
- After May 31, 2026: Older AM/AMM versions lose map functionality
The key takeaway: do not wait until late Q2 2026 to start this process.
Where to Get Help
To coordinate your AirLink Manager 2.18 upgrade, contact Semtech Support:
- Support portal: www.sierrawireless.com/support
- Product resources and bulletins: https://source.sierrawireless.com
- Security bulletin sign-up: https://www.sierrawireless.com/company/iot-device-security/security-bulletins
If you are a customer who purchased your AirLink hardware through us and need assistance understanding your deployment type or planning your upgrade path, our team is also here to help point you in the right direction. Contact us Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm CST.
Don’t Risk Losing Map Functionality
The upcoming Google Maps authentication change may feel far away, but enterprise upgrade cycles often take longer than expected. Securing your place in the queue early ensures your AirLink Manager 2.18 upgrade is completed well before the May 31, 2026 deadline.
If your organization depends on map-based tracking, geographic reporting, or fleet visibility within AirLink Manager or AirLink Mobility Manager, this upgrade is essential.
Stay proactive, stay informed, and make sure your deployment remains fully functional well beyond 2026.
