looked to me like the actual version would create a "t" in the OBDII port, still allow functionality of the port as normal. What I don't care for is then having to have another device on data plan (10-15 month plus whatever smartlink subscription cost, couldn't find it). If I worked as a mobile office, sure it'd be nice and probably worth it. For long trips we just dial up a hotspot from one of three phones and tablet away from there(most time it is mine as I am driving). 50 a year for remote access I am okay with, I have a feeling the smartlink is in the same ballpark, but you then have a device and taxes on cell phone bill each month.