Firstly, after reading this post, I truly believe you are due a 'top' service recovery package from BMW (doubt whether that sort of thing exists).
But another (obvious question is) surely you cannot be the
ONLY BMW owner on the planet who has BMW Assist with a disabled 'search' function
Thus, assuming there are just maybe one or even two other humans who have it, how come they have not popped their heads up and complained like you?
Nope, this is VERY fishy. I was beginning to think this might just be a European only option, but that's ridiculous given the technology lead the US has.
Pray keep us updated.....!
Have you set a target-date for the refund of the "non-functioning" option you paid for?
Or will you be asking for a LONG (free) extension of the annual subscription?