New Di2 means more compatability

The electronic version of Ultegra now looks to be far more in line with Shimano’s E-tube software than ever before, meaning more compatibility with third-party head units: buttons on top of the hoods let you change data screens remotely rather than having to take your hands off the bars. Shimano Ultegra R8050 should also benefit from continued firmware updates for the E-tube software, including rider profiles, meaning different programs can be run on a Di2 system for different occasions, whether that’s racing or riding.

Synchro Shift is carried across to Ultegra R8050: front and rear mechs communicate, allowing for semi-auto shifting and multi-shift options. Shimano also says there has been a slight improvement in Di2 button ergonomics: there’s a distinct separation of the upshift and downshift buttons, which addresses a minor gripe we had when we first rode 6870.