In October 2023, I review three Thrustmaster developments: lighting telemetry for the T818, the arrival of the Ferrari 488 GT3 wheel and a phone-based profile manager. The new features address some expectations, but their usefulness depends on the installed wheel. Setting up the app also leaves me wanting simpler, more unified software management.
The RGB strip gains telemetry
The update identified as version 6.0.2 in the video adds three display patterns. They can notably show engine speed, flags and pit entry. Pattern selection and brightness adjustment use combinations of buttons on the side of the base, detailed in the manual.
This finally gives the LEDs a function beyond decoration. However, the SF1000 hides the light strip from my driving position. With a round rim or a shape exposing more of the front panel, it becomes more useful. Providing telemetry is therefore only part of the issue: it must be readable from the seat.
The Ferrari 488 GT3 arrives
The Ferrari 488 GT3 wheel has just gone on sale at the time of filming. I present it as a new GT3-focused option reproduced at 1:1 scale, with an announced price of €249 in that context. It has no analogue clutch paddles. This is a range update rather than a detailed test of that wheel.
Profiles, but fragmented setup
The profile manager uses a smartphone application and first requires a plugin to be installed on the PC. I found this preparation cumbersome, with several stages involving downloading, installation and updates.
The app provides access to saved settings but does not add a broad range of new parameters. Changes are not reflected in real time in the computer’s configuration panel. I welcome profiles while wanting more complete software that brings these functions together coherently.
What we liked
- Telemetry giving the T818 lighting a useful role.
- The ability to save profiles.
What we liked less
- LEDs hidden by the SF1000 in my installation.
- Cumbersome software preparation.
- Settings divided between phone and computer.
