That is not exactly true...per the '09 FEH Nav System Manual, "SYSTEM SOFTWARE UPDATES
NAVTEQ offers system software updates for purchase. You can call
1-800-NAVMAPS or go to www.navteq.com. You will need to specify the
make and model of you vehicle in order to determine if a map update is
available. CD song/artist/title/album art database updates (CDDB) are
available. There is no charge for the data, however, there is a nominal
shipping and materials fee. Mapping updates will be available yearly.
CDDB database updates are complimentary when a map update is
purchased."
My understanding is that when you purchase an update, you are sent a DVD install disc that then updates the hard drive of your system.