BMW In Car Technology

BMW's iDrive system was far ahead of its time though notoriously over-complex when it debuted more than a decade ago, and has grown easier to use and more feature-rich ever since. The new BMW ConnectedDrive platform uses either your smartphone or an on-board data connection to enrich the driving experience with features like internet radio, social networking and even web browsing. iPhone users can take full advantage of the latest in smartphone-to-car integration with a growing list of entertainment and convenience apps downloadable from the iTunes store and fully integrated with iDrive.

Navigation/Infotainment Package Specific to Manufacturer

BMW iDrive with ConnectedDrive: iDrive uses an innovative control stick rather than touchscreen to control navigation and infotainment functions. In recent years BMW has added full voice recognition plus hardware buttons for common functions, and user-programmable buttons.

ConnectedDrive is BMW’s umbrella term for all its newest entertainment, information, convenience and safety services. BMW continues to push the envelope with first-to-market features that are quickly copied by its competitors.

Car Audio

• Available harman/kardon Surround Sound premium audio systems
• Interface: iDrive control stick, voice commands, programmable dash buttons (no touch screen)
• Speakers: 10 speakers including 1 or 2 subwoofers.
• Available inputs: USB/iPod/iPad, auxiliary-in 3.5-mm
• Other features: HD Radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth streaming audio, iPhone/iPad integration, on-board hard drive for storing music.

Car Video

• Screens:  Rear-seat Entertainment System (5-Series, 7-Series and SUV models) features web browsing and ConnectedDrive features.
• DVD/Blu-Ray Capability: DVD
• Back Up Cameras: Available on most models.

Car Gaming

• Video game consoles supported: With Rear-Seat Entertainment System
• Input jacks: AC electrical outlet, A/V

Computers

• Mobile/Rolling hotspot: BMW Car Hotspot creates on-board data connection with in-dash web browsing and data connection for any WiFi-enabled device. Optional on several models.
• Smartphone-based data connection: Yes. (Most ConnectedDrive features use either smartphone connection or BMW on-board data connection.)
• Optional BMW Apps allows purchase and download of apps from the Apple iTunes store specifically designed to work with BMW’s infotainment system and iDrive controller.

Navigation

• Price Range:  Standard on higher trim levels, $1,850-$2,150 as option.
• Interface: iDrive control stick, voice commands
• Features: Hard-drive based (quicker than DVD-based), Google Maps and Search, real-time traffic with automotive route redirect
• Number of Vehicles featuring the navigation package: All BMW models.

Safety Technology

• Heads-up display shows pertinent information like speed and upcoming turns at eye-level on the windshield.
• ConnectedDrive features emergency telematics with dedicated SOS Button plus personal concierge service.
• Night vision windshield with pedestrian detection.

Bluetooth Hands-Free

• Bluetooth hands-free phone pairing standard on all models. Can read texts and emails aloud.