AppleInsider Staff
"In 2004, BMW was the first vehicle manufacturer to integrate the Apple iPod into BMW vehicles and have customers take full control of their music on the road," the German automaker said in a statement. "So it seemed only logical that BMW be among the first vehicle manufacturers to ensure that owners of the new iPhone have the same ability to enjoy their music, plus the added benefits of Bluetooth handsfree calling."
The iPhone will reportedly work as a Bluetooth-enabled cellphone on most BMW Assist-equipped models with Bluetooth handsfree-calling produced October 2004 or later (7 Series as of March 2005 production). As a compatible Bluetooth cell phone, drivers can place and answer calls and select numbers from the iPhone's address book by simply using the multi-function steering wheel or dashboard controls.
BMW said access to the iPod application of the iPhone via the in-vehicle controls and central information or radio display will be possible on models equipped with the optional iPod/USB Interface. The factory option is currently available on BMW 3 and 5 Series models including M5 (as of March 2007 production) and the BMW X5 (as of April 2007 production). The iPod/USB Interface will also be available on 6 Series models, including M6, beginning with September 2007 production.
BMW's 2007 M3 Coupe due out this fall.
BMW's iPod/USB Interface option utilizes an adapter cable to provide full integration and functionality of an iPod or the iPhone’s music player application. The cable has an iPod docking connector on one end and separate cables on the other end for connection to the in-vehicle AUX IN jack and USB connector. Full iPod menu functionality is available in the Control Display monitor or radio display on non-iDrive models, the automaker said.
Andrew Orr
Amber Neely
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
11 Comments
<SNIP> As a compatible Bluetooth cell phone, drivers can place and answer calls and select numbers from the iPhone's address book by simply using the multi-function steering wheel or dashboard controls. <SNIP>
This same functionality is also available in the Audi A6 with Bluetooth through the MMI Interface, including Missed Calls, Contact List, Received Calls, etc. I have tested it on a 2005 and 2006 and a 2007 model. The Bluetooth setup and pairing is flawless. I tried the same cars with a LG vx8100 and the level of integration was much lower, only able make and take calls, end calls, etc. Not the same 'intelligence' with recognition of numbers dialed, missed, contacts etc.
On another note, the iPhone bluetooth seems very powerful, and able to work from at least as far as 30 feet away from the phone when used handsfree or with a JABRA Bluetooth headset.
I'll chime in on my 2005 Jeep:
iPhone integration is excellent. I upgraded from a Windows Mobile Phone (T-Mobile SDA) that SORT-OF worked with the Jeep. The iPhone's integration is far better. iPhone gives me the option to answer or place a call either on the headset or through the Jeep. With my awful Windows phone, I was forced into using the Jeep's system whenever I was in or near the Jeep. This was cause for much embarrassment and frustration.
The bad old days are gone; iPhone rules!
The facelifted E46 M3 is a classic; but the upcoming M3 will be a grower for me in terms of looks (though an Alpine White E92 does look stunning).
A point of clarification: E92 M3's are not scheduled to be unleashed in the United States until sometime early/mid-2008.
i sold my BMW. I bought a porsche..
i sold my BMW. I bought a porsche..
I hope it was a 'proper' Porsche.