BMW was quick to offer full integration for the iPhones as soon as they were launched. Now, the company has gone a step further and offered iPhone integration for all BMW and MINI models.
BMW group plans full integration for the BMW 6 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 1 Series and BMW X5. All MINI models will get the integration as well.
The phone is connected to the operating system of the vehicle models. Music is transferred by means of a cable adapter that fits in the USB audio interface in the cars. There’s more to the integration; BMW has developed a joint platform for the phone and iPod function.
This software automatically stops any music selection that is playing on the vehicle’s speakers for the duration of a call. With the music paused, the speakers and microphone of the hands-free are activated, the system reverts to playing music when the call is terminated.
For MINI models, the iPhone function will be displayed in the display of the navigation system or in the radio unit, depending on availability. If a navigation system is installed, the joystick operating system can be used to access controls of the iPhone.
Connectivity for MP3 players had already become a ‘must’ with almost all automakers adding iPod connectivity to their lineup. Now, with BMWs integration of iPhone, a wave of iPhone integration may well be on its way.
[Courtesy: BMW]
