Remote Feature Installer For Bmw Cars? All Answers

Apple CarPlay comes pre-installed in newer BMW models, integrates with the vehicle’s onboard systems and is accessible via the controls, typically a touchscreen that you’ll find front and center on the dashboard, where you can view all the apps. Anything is possible with the BMW ConnectedDrive system. Read our full article What is Apple CarPlay here to get the full story.

Do BMW owners have to pay for CarPlay?

No, Apple CarPlay is now a free service for Bimmer owners – as it should be borne in mind that it is a free service for other automakers.

$300 fee to $80 subscription to free (finally)

When it first arrived at BMW in 2016, there was a whopping $300 one-time CarPlay fee for buyers who wanted it (good for 20 years). Considering it’s an app-based setup built into owners’ phones, paying out of pocket seems like a simple cash grab. But when those pricey $2,500 navigation system upgrades went away, we can see why they started charging for this standalone option.

Even considering CarPlay was free in 2016 for other automakers, including Chevrolet, paying $300 was a stretch. But to be fair to BMW, they were one of the first to introduce wireless CarPlay, while other brands still required a connected USB cable.

Then they switched from the one-time fee to an $80 subscription service for Apple CarPlay alongside their ConnectedDrive service, which BMW eventually retired in 2020. So it’s all free now.

As The Verge notes, it appears that BMW has realized the error of its ways.

2021 BMW models with CarPlay now get car keys

Apple is constantly improving its in-car service, including a new service for 2021 called Car Keys, which owners can now use iPhone to unlock and start their car. Other brands have similar services, including Ford’s FordPass.

Good news for BMW buyers, as almost all models will find CarPlay for 2021 – and all of these will benefit from car keys too. Here’s a look at BMW’s offering with the service:

2021 BMW SUV & Crossover with CarPlay 2021 X5

2021 X6

2021 X7

2021 X5M

2021 X6 M 2021 BMW Cars with CarPlay 2021 1 Series

2021 2er

2021 3 Series

2021 4er

2021 5s

2021 6 Series

2021 8 Series

2021 Z4

Past BMW models with CarPlay

2019-2020 i8

2019-2020 Z4

2018 – 2020 X1

2018-2020 X2

2018-2020 i3

2018 – 2021 X7

2018 – 2020 8 Series

2018 – 2021 X7 ​​2017 – 2021 3 Series

2017 – 2020 1 Series

2017 – 2019 6 Series

2017 – 2020 2 Series

2017 – 2020 4 Series

2017 – 2020 5 Series

2017 – 2020 7 Series

2017 – 2020 X3

2017-2020 X4

2017-2020 X5

2017-2020 X6

Retrofitting AppleCarPlay in older BMWs – is that possible?

Sure, a 2016 BMW is certainly not an old car, but in the engineering world, it’s something of a dinosaur. Still, yes, you can retrofit aftermarket head units in older Bimmers for the full CarPlay experience and access all of those iPhone apps – from the music library and contacts to maps and navigation.

We won’t go into the entire process of retrofitting pre-2017 BMWs with units, but you can read more about it on bimmer-tech.net here.

Bring away

While BMW was an early adopter using Apple CarPlay wirelessly, the German automaker charged for the service — from that one-time $300 fee to an annual $80 fee. Now it’s free and all 2021 BMW models even get car key integration which will be a huge bonus. And for any older Bimmer, upgrading to a CarPlay-compatible head unit is within reach, with some heavy lifting and, of course, extra expense.

If you’re more of a Google person, read our article What is Android Auto here.

For many people who buy a new car, the quality of the infotainment system is an important consideration. It’s something automakers have taken on board and are all scrambling to design an in-car system that will be enough to woo potential buyers. However, many still struggle to produce something that is more than just functional. And with fragmentation between brands, these systems generally only offer a small handful of third-party integrations, falling back to native solutions for most core functions like navigation, music, and messaging.

Fortunately, Apple is able to offer iPhone users a compelling alternative in the form of iPhone CarPlay, an in-car multimedia hub that lets you safely use many of your favorite iOS apps behind the wheel.

After adding BMW Apple CarPlay you can:

Choose from a range of navigation apps including Apple Maps, Google Maps and Waze rather than relying on your car’s native navigation system.

Enjoy music, radio, podcasts and audiobooks from services like Spotify, Stitcher, Tidal, Pandora and Audible.

Send text messages with apps like WhatsApp.

Use Siri voice control to send messages, find directions and more without taking your eyes off the road.

Access all your content conveniently using your vehicle’s native iDrive controls, no matter what app you’re using.

Apple CarPlay could be of particular interest to any BMW owner, thanks to BMW’s longstanding commitment to making work easier for iPhone users.

What is Apple CarPlay?

CarPlay was introduced in 2014, but was based on the already existing “iPod Out” feature that Apple and BMW had jointly developed a few years earlier. In a BMW, iPod Out made it possible to connect an iPod to your iDrive system and listen to your music collection through your vehicle’s stereo system. At the same time, the current track or playlist could be displayed on the iDrive screen, and controlling your iPod – skipping tracks, for example – could be done using your vehicle’s native multimedia controls.

As iPods gave way to much more powerful iPhones, Apple was able to rethink its iPod-Out technology and rebuild it with significantly more features. Rather than just controlling music playback, the new system, called CarPlay, could use the full power of an iPhone to run a wide range of apps, including music, news and navigation. By creating an interface between your smartphone and your BMW’s iDrive system, CarPlay lets you enjoy the best of both worlds: the versatility of an iPhone and its broad app ecosystem, combined with the convenience of the in-car dashboard display and controls .

Although CarPlay lets you run many of the familiar apps you might already use on your iPhone, the system is optimized for in-car use. That means a new menu design better suited for use behind the wheel. While CarPlay supports touchscreens in compatible vehicles, the system works just as well with the buttons and knobs found on most car dashboards.

What is wireless CarPlay?

Unlike many other manufacturers, BMW has also chosen to implement Wireless CarPlay, allowing you to connect your iPhone to your car without wires. The result is a cleaner, more tidy appearance that many BMW owners are sure to appreciate.

Does BMW support CarPlay?

Given that BMW played a key role in the development of CarPlay’s predecessor, iPod Out, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that BMW has also fitted many of its cars with Apple’s latest offering. Apple CarPlay has been available in BMWs with the latest navigation systems since 2017, adding an extra layer of utility to the existing iDrive infotainment platform.

CarPlay Update in iOS 14 – What’s new?

Apple’s updates to iOS software brought new benefits to CarPlay – both in terms of user interface and system features. iOS 14 allows users to swap out the CarPlay wallpaper for a wallpaper with more vivid or tinted colors, autoplay tracks in Apple Music, and access an EV route planner in Apple Maps. The biggest update, however, was Siri. Not only did the voice assistant get an all-new speaker interface, but also the ability to send voice messages via messaging apps and push an ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) to contact lists.

CarPlay in iOS 14 – How to update?

Whether you have an original Apple CarPlay or CarPlay MMI Prime, you can still have your software updated. All it takes is a quick iOS 14 update on your iPhone and a change in Wi-Fi settings if needed, and you’re good to go with the latest CarPlay features.

Learn more features coming with Apple’s iOS 14 update.

How to update to Apple CarPlay and what is required

CarPlay is available as a factory option in most new BMWs. If your vehicle doesn’t have CarPlay but you want to add it, you have a few upgrade options.

Activation of the CarPlay software

Even if your BMW does not have Apple CarPlay, your vehicle may already be equipped with the necessary hardware. All vehicles with the CarPlay Ready option (S6CPA) can run the native Apple CarPlay interface after it has been activated by a BMW dealer or a third party using special BMW coding software. If you are unsure if your vehicle has the S6CPA option, try entering your VIN into a free online BMW VIN decoder to find out. CarPlay can even be activated on vehicles with an NBT Evo ID5/6 head unit with current iDrive software, without the need for the CarPlay preparation option.

The Original BMW CarPlay upgrade is available for the latest BMW models including:

2017-2019 BMW 2 Series

2017-2020 BMW 3 Series

2017-2019 BMW 4 Series

2017-2019 BMW 5 Series

2017-2019 BMW 6 Series

2017-2019 BMW 7 Series

2018-2019 BMW X1

2018-2019 BMW X2

2017-2019 BMW X3

2017-2019 BMW X4

2017-2019 BMW X5

2017-2019 BMW X6

2018-2019 BMW i3

2019 BMW i8

2019 BMW Z4

Apple CarPlay availability may also be limited by your location if you choose to activate it directly from the factory. According to Apple, BMW CarPlay 2020 is available in more than 35 countries. But if you’re not on this list, BMW can’t offer you this feature. BimmerTech, on the other hand, can perform BMW CarPlay setup in any country if you have the necessary hardware preparation.

Adding a WiFi antenna for CarPlay

Since BMW’s CarPlay implementation is wireless, your car must also have a WiFi antenna to enable a connection between your iPhone and BMW. This is included in the CarPlay preparation option, but can also be found in packages such as Wireless Charging (S6NVA or S6NWA) or Comfort Telephony (S6NSA or S6NPA). If your car is not already equipped with a WiFi antenna, you need to add one before enabling this function in order for the BMW CarPlay to work over WiFi system.

Installing the WiFi antenna is very easy. You can see it in our video tutorial below:

Retrofitting a BMW CarPlay module

For older vehicles that are not officially supported, it is also possible to add BMW CarPlay (aftermarket device required). BimmerTech’s CarPlay MMI Prime is one of your options. Take a look at the CarPlay installation process for NBT type iDrives.

NOTE: The installation process may vary depending on the main device.

Although the above installation process of CarPlay for NBT head units is easy to do even for the inexperienced DIYer, the process of installing the CarPlay MMI Prime in cars with CIC is a bit more troublesome. So if you need help, here is a list of our installers who will manage this process for you.

Find out if a third-party or BMW CarPlay activation is right for you.

Whether a third-party CarPlay module will work in your BMW and what features are available to you depends on the exact product. BimmerTech’s CarPlay MMI Prime retrofit requires no special package, making it a great choice for a wide variety of vehicles. Unlike many other units available, BimmerTech is designed to integrate perfectly with your BMW, allowing you to use the factory iDrive screen, buttons and controllers when using CarPlay. Just like the OEM solution, it also supports wireless connection. For added versatility, it even includes Android Auto alongside CarPlay, something BMW doesn’t yet offer even in its latest cars. Android Auto is coming to BMWs in July 2020, though, so it’s worth checking out Android Auto as well.

For more information, see how to retrofit CarPlay in a 2016 or earlier BMW.

How do you pair wireless CarPlay with your phone?

Although CarPlay apps appear on your car’s built-in display, the apps themselves still run on your iPhone. This means that CarPlay is not a standalone system; It requires an iOS device to be connected to your car at all times.

On many systems, this requires a wired connection, with the iPhone plugged into one of the vehicle’s USB ports throughout use. However, CarPlay supports wireless connections, which some manufacturers – including BMW – have used. In a BMW with factory CarPlay, all you have to do is turn on Bluetooth on your iPhone and navigate to Settings > General > CarPlay on your iPhone to pair the two.

How do I use CarPlay in my BMW?

When your BMW and iPhone are paired, the native BMW iDrive menu is replaced by CarPlay’s alternative, which displays all your available apps as iOS-like icons on the screen. Navigating the menu is no different than using BMW’s proprietary system, meaning you can use the iDrive controller to toggle between options – or, for touchscreen cars, just tap on the app you want to use. Additionally, the voice control button on the steering wheel can be used to summon Siri so you can ask for directions, dictate messages or ask for music, just like on an iPhone.

What apps can I use on Apple Carplay in 2020?

To use an app through CarPlay, it must first be installed on your iPhone, but that doesn’t mean every app on your phone will be available on CarPlay. First off, CarPlay only supports apps you’re likely to use while driving: navigation, news, and audio, including music, radio, and podcasts. This includes popular preinstalled apps like Apple Maps, iMessage, and Apple Music, as well as third-party offerings like Google Maps, Audible, and Overcast. Outside of these three categories, Apple has also allowed manufacturers to include their own vehicle-specific app.

The app developer must also enable their app for CarPlay, in part by providing an alternative interface better suited for in-car use. Big apps like Waze, Spotify, and WhatsApp have done this, but if you’re using something more niche, you might not be able to access it through CarPlay. And even when it is available, functionality may be limited; Facebook Messenger launched with support for receiving voice calls via CarPlay, but doesn’t allow calls or messages. If you are unsure whether your preferred app is supported, contact the developer for clarification.

From January 2020, the BMW CarPlay apps will include:

Apple Maps

Google Maps

Waze

Apple Podcasts

Apple Audiobooks

Whatsapp

Spotify Amazon Prime Music

Google play music

SiriusXM satellite radio

audible

MLB at bat

Pandora

Tidal iHeartRadio

stapler

Radio Disney

CBS radio

Covered

audio books. com

NAVER Map Slacker radio

VOX

NPR One

cocoa map

Clammr

Dejected

Sygic

Apple is currently adding new apps. To check the latest app lineup, please visit the official CarPlay website.

My favorite app is missing. What can I do?

CarPlay is designed for use with navigation, audio, and messaging apps only. There are currently no known plans to add more app categories to CarPlay. That said, if you want to use other types of apps in your BMW, for example to watch videos for your fellow passengers, CarPlay might not be the right choice for you.

However, BimmerTech offers a range of innovative solutions designed to bring more of your favorite apps to your car. In addition to the standard CarPlay functionality, our CarPlay MMI Prime also includes a screen mirroring function (iOS AirPlay in the main menu). You can convert your smartphone’s display so you can use non-CarPlay apps on the iDrive screen!

Can Apple CarPlay play Netflix?

Unfortunately this is not possible as CarPlay does not support VOD apps. DRM technology in most video streaming apps also blocks use with screen mirroring. However, you can broadcast the YouTube app from your iPhone using the iOS AirPlay connection to our CarPlay MMI Prime.

If you really want to get one of the streaming apps on your iDrive screen, check out our Apple TV based SmartView HD system. It gives you access to all Apple TV apps on the iDrive screen, including video apps like Netflix, HBO, and Hulu, and is perfect for iPhone users. See what Apple TV 4 can do for your BMW.

Reorganization of the CarPlay home screen

Like an iPhone, CarPlay gives you the option to rearrange the apps on the home screen, move the icons between pages, or delete them entirely. This way you can always make sure you have easy access to the apps you use regularly in your car and not clutter your screen with extra apps you don’t need.

Instead of configuring CarPlay in your car, everything is done on your iPhone under Settings > General > CarPlay. There you have the ability to drag-and-drop icons across screens to define the arrangement you’ll have the next time you use CarPlay in your vehicle. Tapping the minus icon on any app will completely remove it from CarPlay. On the same screen you can also decide whether you can use CarPlay when your iPhone is locked.

Because your CarPlay settings are stored on your iPhone and not your BMW, anyone driving your car can set everything up completely differently and access their unique configuration by connecting their phone. If you already use custom driver profiles for each BMW key fob, CarPlay fits right in.

Depending on your CarPlay system and the size of your vehicle’s screen, CarPlay can display eight or ten icons per screen. Because of this variation, anyone who drives multiple vehicles must configure CarPlay for each one individually. The CarPlay settings page on your iPhone shows all the cars you’ve connected your iPhone to and lets you set up a unique menu layout for each. This could be useful for anyone who has a personal, company or family car for the week and something sporty for the weekend. CarPlay lets you customize the default menu from car to car to prioritize the apps you’re most likely to use at different moments in your life: messaging apps in your company car and entertainment for family trips.

Full Screen vs Split Screen Apple CarPlay

By default, BMW’s native CarPlay system features a split-screen interface, with a total of eight apps per screen. For an enhanced CarPlay experience, owners of vehicles with the latest NBT Evo ID5/6 head units can enable full screen mode in their BMW, allowing you to use up to 10 apps per page.

BimmerTech can enable these and other features with our quick and easy remote iDrive coding.

Using CarPlay full-screen mode gives your navigation map and other apps more room to shine, making it easier to get the information you’re looking for at a glance. Because of the advantages that full-screen CarPlay offers over the split-screen alternative, third-party CarPlay retrofits like BimmerTech’s CarPlay MMI Prime device typically use a full-screen interface by default.

How much does Apple CarPlay cost?

Buying a new BMW costs you all the optional extras, and CarPlay is no different. When it launched in 2017, CarPlay cost $300 in the US, which is roughly in line with other infotainment options.

Is Apple CarPlay based on a subscription?

That was it, but since release, BMW has taken another look at the way it’s offering CarPlay. In an industry first, BMW initially chose to make CarPlay available as a subscription service that’s free in new cars for a year and costs $80 a year thereafter. BMW’s argument was that the Apple CarPlay subscription could be better for consumers, especially those leasing; It would have taken five years for the total subscription cost to exceed the old $300 upfront cost. So, over the course of a typical three-year lease, you would have $140 more.

Buyers in the new and used markets weren’t quite as lucky. The longer they planned to keep the car, the higher the premium they would end up paying for the BMW CarPlay subscription, and without the free first year, the cost would increase a little faster. It’s clear why BMW’s decision to move to a subscription model came with its share of critics, and why the manufacturer made other changes to the Apple CarPlay subscription price.

When does the subscription end and for whom?

In December 2019, the German automaker announced that it had decided to ditch its Apple CarPlay subscription model. 2019/2020 BMW vehicles with the latest infotainment system (iDrive 7.0) will not be charged for CarPlay, meaning the software subscription will automatically renew for those still in their first free year. Eligible BMW owners who had a BMW Apple CarPlay subscription but canceled it also have the option to renew for free. For previously paid cars with Apple CarPlay, it is not known whether there will be a refund or not.

This CarPlay model will initially be rolled out in the UK, US and Australia and after successful implementation in other regions.

So is Apple CarPlay free in BMW?

Yes and no. Owners of BMW vehicles with iDrive 6.0 and lower infotainment systems will continue to be charged a one-time fee of $300. In addition, the launch of the new CarPlay payment model may take a while to reach all countries, so the BMW Apple CarPlay subscription fee may stay a little longer.

If you prefer to pay a set fee upfront now rather than continue to be charged an annual fee, a third-party BMW CarPlay retrofit, like those from BimmerTech, can enable CarPlay in your car without the subscription costs.

How do I install CarPlay in my BMW?

How you enable Apple CarPlay in your BMW depends on your vehicle, but BimmerTech has solutions for a variety of situations.

If your vehicle already has the appropriate hardware – either the CarPlay Ready (S6CPA) option or a current NBT Evo ID5/6 head unit – we can activate BMW Original CarPlay in under an hour. Depending on your BMW Apple CarPlay compatibility, our technician will perform the activation remotely or you will receive a USB stick that will automatically unlock CarPlay when plugged into your car.

Older vehicle owners can instead opt for our CarPlay MMI Prime retrofit, a custom module that offers a fully integrated CarPlay experience.

To find out which option is available for your vehicle, enter your VIN at the top of the page or contact us.

Step-by-step setup guide for Apple CarPlay

Apple CarPlay is available for all BMW models with iDrive 7 system and is the best way to connect your Apple iPhone to your new BMW. Follow this simple step-by-step guide or watch the video above to pair your Apple iPhone to your new BMW via Apple CarPlay.

Make sure Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Siri are enabled on your iPhone. On the left side of your iDrive 7 screen, press COM > Mobile devices > New device > Phone calls and audio. The system is now discoverable from your iPhone and may show nearby devices. On your iPhone, select your BMW from the Bluetooth menu. The two will now begin pairing and your iDrive 7 screen will confirm the pairing request. Confirm that the PIN displayed on your iDrive 7 and iPhone screen match, then press Yes. Select the option to connect to Apple CarPlay on your iDrive 7 screen. Your iPhone and the BMW iDrive 7 system are now connected via Apple CarPlay.

For more information on your BMW iDrive 7 system or to pair your devices with Bluetooth, please feel free to contact us to speak to a knowledgeable team member.

So many people out there are looking for a good Apple CarPlay screen for their car. If you already have CarPlay in your car or truck, you obviously know why it’s so desirable. To be honest, the infotainment systems in most cars are terrible. Sure, they’ve gotten better lately. But not everyone is in the market for a new car. Furthermore, why bother with a proprietary infotainment system when you can easily access all the great apps on your iPhone? Of course, this also applies to Android Auto.

If you don’t already have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in your car, we’ve got something you need to see. It’s called car and driver INTELLIDASH+. It adds CarPlay or Android Auto to any car in seconds, no installation required!

Today’s top offers

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Apple CarPlay screen for each car

Apple CarPlay screen for the car

The Car and Driver INTELLIDASH+ is an ideal solution for those who do not want complicated installation. Installing a built-in device with CarPlay is nice, but not everyone wants to deal with the hassle. Also, it’s not even possible in many cars these days. Optimized interior designs mean that traditional aftermarket single din and double din car radios will not work in many models.

The great Car and Driver solution is here to save the day. In seconds you have an Apple CarPlay screen for any car. All the main features you would enjoy with built-in CarPlay are supported. In fact, you get extra features that aren’t even present in regular CarPlay-equipped cars.

Examples include built-in SiriusXM support, YouTube, dedicated Waze support, and more. The same is also true if you use Android Auto instead. Unlike similar solutions, this model adds support for Android Auto, not just Apple CarPlay.

The story goes on

INTELLIDASH+ quick reference

We tested the Car and Driver INTELLIDASH+ and it works quite well. It’s not exactly the same as having built-in CarPlay support in your vehicle, but that’s as close as it gets. It’s also cool to be able to easily switch the device from one car to another.

Also, there is another version called INTELLIDASH Pro that supports wireless CarPlay. Most people probably plug their phones into power anyway. But it’s nice to have the option to go wireless if you want.

The INTELLIDASH+ retails for $349.99, while the updated INTELLIDASH Pro retails for $399.99 with wireless CarPlay support.

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Car and driver INTELLIDASH+ quick facts

If you’re looking for Apple CarPlay screen for car without screen, you’ve come to the right place. It also works with Android Auto and SiriusXM!

Here are the key takeaways:

Car and Driver’s INTELLIDASH+ is an intelligent display for every car

Install it in your new or old car in seconds – no installation required!

INTELLIDASH+ comes with a suction mount that attaches to your windshield or any flat part of your dashboard

It’s not a permanent installation, so you can easily move it between cars

There’s also a shock-absorbing gel strip that you can place under the device to prevent rattling

Add Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to any car with almost no effort

The elegant, easy-to-use touchscreen is a good size, so all functions of your smartphone are crystal clear

You can even use your phone’s voice assistant like Siri for hands-free calling

Simply connect your iPhone or Android to the INTELLIDASH+ via the USB port to activate CarPlay or Android Auto

It even charges your smartphone while driving

This model is fully compatible with your smartphone’s AI voice assistant – use it to make calls, play music and more

Built-in Bluetooth means you can also easily connect any device to stream music or podcasts to your car’s audio system

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Another option to add wireless CarPlay to your car

Does your car already have a CarPlay screen? That’s great, but most cars with Apple CarPlay require you to connect your phone. It’s simple enough, but it’s also annoying when you know there’s a better option. If you’re looking to add wireless CarPlay to any car that already has CarPlay support, check out the CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter.

The Carlinkit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter converts any car with wired CarPlay to support wireless CarPlay

Works with Audi, Porsche, Volvo, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Honda, Peugeot, Chevrolet, Ford SYNC 3.4, Mazda and more

Your car must have a factory wired CarPlay system to work with this wireless CarPlay adapter

You no longer need to connect your phone to your car with a Lightning USB cable

Play music, listen to podcasts, navigate with your favorite map app and more – all via CarPlay, now with a cable

Compatible with any iPhone model from iPhone 5 and newer, as long as it runs iOS 7.1 or later

The initial connection from your iPhone to the Carlinkit 2.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter takes between 7 and 14 seconds, depending on the car and iPhone model

Comes with a one-year warranty in addition to lifetime technical support

CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter (model year: 2019 to 2020)

Price: $100.00

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Step-by-step setup guide for Apple CarPlay

Apple CarPlay is available for all BMW models with iDrive 7 system and is the best way to connect your Apple iPhone to your new BMW. Follow this simple step-by-step guide or watch the video above to pair your Apple iPhone to your new BMW via Apple CarPlay.

Make sure Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Siri are enabled on your iPhone. On the left side of your iDrive 7 screen, press COM > Mobile devices > New device > Phone calls and audio. The system is now discoverable from your iPhone and may show nearby devices. On your iPhone, select your BMW from the Bluetooth menu. The two will now begin pairing and your iDrive 7 screen will confirm the pairing request. Confirm that the PIN displayed on your iDrive 7 and iPhone screen match, then press Yes. Select the option to connect to Apple CarPlay on your iDrive 7 screen. Your iPhone and the BMW iDrive 7 system are now connected via Apple CarPlay.

For more information on your BMW iDrive 7 system or to pair your devices with Bluetooth, please feel free to contact us to speak to a knowledgeable team member.

Even if your 2004 Toyota Camry runs like a champ, you’re still stuck using Google Maps with your iPhone in a mount.

However, there is a workaround to get Apple CarPlay working in older cars that weren’t sold with the ability to mirror your phone display to the car’s dash screen (if it even has one). You can finally have all your music, podcasts, navigation, and messaging apps on one convenient screen. And you can even use Siri for voice control.

First you need to buy the screen.

Look for a dashboard

Third-party vendors like Pioneer, Alpine, Kenwood, and Sony make in-dash touchscreens compatible with CarPlay.

To find out if your car will connect and work with the aftermarket screens — which are typically 6 to 9 inches in diameter — visit a site like Crutchfield. You can enter your specific make, model and year. My 1995 Honda Odyssey returned 67 results when I searched for the keyword “CarPlay”.

Put this in your older car for today’s technology. Credit: Pioneer

Most automakers don’t offer display upgrades for older cars, but Porsche is a major exception. The sports car manufacturer offers its own CarPlay upgrade in its “Porsche Classic Communication Management Systems”. So you can now equip your 1960’s German sports car with a 3.5 inch screen as shown above (or a 7 inch display for newer 90’s models).

For the rest of us who rock less fancy, used rides, we need to find an aftermarket screen that works with most makes of car. Most CarPlay-compatible touchscreen dash units start at around $250 but can go as high as $1,000, like Alpine’s 11-inch screen. At least it’s just a one-time cost.

Displays with CarPlay will likely come with other features that may incur additional costs. These include HD radio, SiriusXM radio connectivity, a rear camera or an HDMI connection. Amazon Alexa and Android Auto connected car services are also available on some devices. Simpler units are usually cheaper.

Installation of the screen

Once you have the device, you need to get it into the car and plug it into a power source. For the typical dash screen, stick it in the room where a stereo should go. This compartment is measured according to the DIN standard, which is the size of the interchangeable car audio unit.

You can install it yourself by following the instructions in the device’s manual. But you have to do a lot of preparation (like disconnecting the car battery) and bring supplies to connect wires and cables — and do it safely. It is important to have experience with car electronics. Again, a site like Crutchfield can help with an equipment list and vehicle-specific installation instructions if you decide to build your own.

Everything you need from your iPhone on the touchscreen. Credit: Pioneer

There is an easier but more expensive option: hire an installation professional to do this for you, such as B. Your local auto mechanic or auto electronics service from a national chain like Best Buy. Dashboard screen installs typically cost around $100.

SEE ALSO: How to Use Apple CarPlay with Your iPhone

Connecting the screen to your iPhone

Once the display is in the car, you want it to show directions and play your music and audiobooks. Not so fast. You must connect first.

Like CarPlay built into cars, different aftermarket displays connect to your iPhone differently. Some units require a USB connection cable, while others can be connected wirelessly via Bluetooth.

Once you figure out the cable situation, you can pair your iPhone like you would in a car with built-in CarPlay. From now on, with the car on, you can place Google Maps or Waze (or even Apple Maps) on the larger screen. It will almost feel like sitting in a 2021 Toyota Camry.

BMW is temporarily delivering new cars without Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality as the automaker switches its chip supplier (via Automotive News Europe).

The new chips built into many BMWs made this year will require updated software to run Apple “CarPlay” and Android Auto. BMW customers who receive a new car without “CarPlay” are being asked by dealerships to wait for an over-the-air update that will enable the functionality “by the end of June at the latest”.

It’s not clear how many BMW models will be affected, but a large number of customers in the US, Italy, Spain, UK and France have posted online that their new vehicles will be delivered without “CarPlay”. Affected models contain the code “6P1” in their specification.

While some BMW owners will have to temporarily forego “CarPlay” functionality, BMW is switching chip suppliers to strengthen its supply chain over the long term amid the ongoing impact of global chip shortages, which could ease component shortages in the second half of the year.

BMW offers one of the most integrated experiences with Apple’s ecosystem, with support for Digital Key, Ultra Wideband Digital Key Plus and a feature-rich dual-screen wireless CarPlay experience. BMW only started offering CarPlay in 2016 and came under fire for charging a $80-a-year fee to access it before declining the subscription after receiving negative feedback.

In Part Two of GearBrain’s Deep Dive into Connected Car Services, we look at BMW’s Connected Drive and iDrive.

ConnectedDrive’s service is a multi-faceted system that works on your phone, smartwatch and smart speaker, as well as in the car itself, where it’s controlled via BMW’s iDrive infotainment system.

Other connected car features offered by BMW ConnectedDrive include wireless charging for your smartphone, Apple CarPlay (coming soon with Android Auto), an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and the ability to use your phone as a key.

Continue reading:

What is BMW ConnectedDrive and what can it do?

ConnectedDrive is the generic term for all Connected Car Services from BMW. This includes the vehicle’s internet connection as well as the phone, watch and speaker applications used to interact with the vehicle remotely. BMW describes ConnectedDrive as a bridge connecting your car to your life, which seems appropriate.

The free BMW Connected smartphone app – available for iPhone and Android – displays important information about your vehicle, such as B. remaining fuel or battery level and range, whether it is locked or not, and diagnostic reports. The app also allows you to lock or unlock the car, sound the horn and flash the headlights (useful if you lost it in a parking lot).

When synced with your calendar, BMW’s ConnectedDrive system can send a notification to your smartphone when it’s time to leave for your next appointment. You can also view the car’s recent activities and locations, which can be useful if you’ve lent it to someone and want to check where they’ve been.

With an Alexa Skill, you can control some vehicle functions by speaking to the assistant at home

bmw

There is also a BMW Connected Skill for smart home devices with Amazon Alexa. With this option enabled, you can ask the assistant to lock or unlock your car, tell you how much fuel is left and when you should leave for your next trip based on your calendar schedule.

In the car itself, ConnectedDrive includes voice control and hand gestures for simple tasks like answering calls, playing/pause music and adjusting the volume. Or you can simply use the buttons on the steering wheel.

Today’s BMWs also include access to a range of media apps. These include Spotify, TuneIn, Pandora, iHeart Radio and Stitcher. Remember that these run on the car itself and use its internet connection; They have nothing to do with your smartphone. For example, log into your Spotify account via the in-car system and you’re good to go. Or you can stream music from your phone via Bluetooth the usual way if you prefer.

Like many modern cars, BMWs have an SOS call button. This system, called BMW Assist eCall, helps with emergency care if you have an accident or breakdown.

Finally, BMW ConnectedDrive has a function integrated into the navigation for finding nearby parking spaces. It shows the location of parking spaces, but also uses navigation information, wireless connections and algorithms to find and predict free parking spaces on the street.

ConnectedDrive is free for the first three months with the purchase of a new BMW, and then it’s $50 a year if you want to keep it. With its new OS 7, introduced with the new 5 Series and rolling out to more models soon, BMW is adding a new way to pay for vehicle features through subscriptions, so the price of ConnectedDrive could change later in 2020. We’ll update that one Article as soon as more information about the subscription service is available.

You can read more about Operating System 7 here.

What is BMW iDrive?

BMW iDrive infotainment system

bmw

iDrive is BMW’s infotainment system and has been around since its debut in the flagship 7 Series back in 2001. Since then it’s worked its way into every BMW model and appears in all current Mini and Rolls-Royce models as well. Both belong to BMW.

At the heart of the iDrive experience is the rotating steering wheel. This can be rotated, pressed, tapped, dragged and slid up, down, left and right to navigate through the infotainment system.

Next to it are a series of buttons that allow you to quickly jump to specific functions, such as B. to the navigation map, to the media page, to the main menu or to your phone connected via Bluetooth.

Characters can be drawn at the top of the steering wheel, for example to enter a destination into the navigation, but that can be tricky if the iDrive unit is on your weaker side. This primarily affects right-hand drive markets, where left-hand drawing can be difficult for most drivers.

iDrive’s user interface appears on a large display (recently fitted with touch controls in some models) at the top of the dashboard. A split view means you can see your navigation map and another app like music or the local weather at the same time. Unlike some other brands like Audi, BMW has kept the traditional look of its instrument panel behind the steering wheel. It’s now an all-digital display on some models, but still resembles traditional dials by default.

One of iDrive’s smartest features is a 360-degree view of your car. This is captured with cameras located around the exterior and their images are stitched together in real time to show what your surroundings look like. You can even swipe the display to look around the car from any angle, helping you with parking and avoiding obstacles.

Do BMWs have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

BMWs have included Apple CarPlay for some time, but Android Auto won’t come until later in 2020 via the launch of OS 7. This makes BMW one of the last automakers to include Google’s system.

Is there a smartphone app for BMW vehicles?

The app is available for iPhone and Android

bmw

Yes, the app is called BMW ConnectedDrive and is available free of charge for iPhone and Android. What’s more interesting is how the new 2021 BMW 5 Series will be the first car to work with Apple’s new CarKey feature for iOS.

This allows drivers to easily unlock and start the car by carrying their iPhone with them. You can also share digital keys with friends and family by sending an iMessage. The key then lives in the recipient’s wallet app and can be used with the car.

The owner can set restrictions for other drivers to prevent the car from leaving a certain area or exceeding a certain speed. Android owners can already do this with compatible BMWs via the ConnectedDrive app.

Anker’s Roav Viva Alexa-Enabled 2-Port USB Car Charger for Car Navigation Compatible with Android and iOS Smart Devices

After charging a subscription fee for 2019 and newer models, BMW is making Apple CarPlay standard at no additional cost for all vehicles equipped with navigation.

BMW received negative feedback and wanted to be more considerate of their tech-obsessed customers.

BMW customers already have an added benefit: it’s one of the few automakers to offer wireless CarPlay, though Android Auto isn’t available yet.

BMW doesn’t give away freebies all that often, but after bad press and numerous unhappy customers, the automaker kills all Apple CarPlay charges. It is effective now.

BMW introduced CarPlay a few years ago with a simple but significant benefit that other brands couldn’t match: the ability to wirelessly connect an iPhone without a USB cable. That convenience was not lost on BMW, which transformed CarPlay from a $300 standalone option to a subscription through its ConnectedDrive suite of app services for $80 a year, or $300 for 20 years, for the 2019 model year . Owners could enjoy free CarPlay for the first year, after which it would be remotely disabled unless the person paid for a subscription.

BMW told Car and Driver that the majority of 2019 model car owners are still within their one-year trial period and the service will be automatically renewed. Anyone who had an expired trial should now see the service reappear. Anyone who paid for a subscription will receive a refund. Finally, anyone who buys a new BMW from today need not worry – it comes standard on all vehicles with navigation.

Months ago, BMW C/D said customers would have to be billed for CarPlay because the wireless technology could cause compatibility issues with other factory-installed features when Apple runs software updates. The fee was to be paid for BMW’s time in developing new updates to the iDrive system. Now BMW has decided it’s a better idea to keep CarPlay going without any fees.

It’s a nice win for consumers, especially from BMW, which offers multiple features as options other companies throw in by default – including proximity entry, garage door opener and lumbar support. Perhaps this is the beginning of a different approach.

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If available in your BMW, you can use Apple CarPlay to connect your iPhone to your BMW and use iOS apps on the integrated dashboard display. You can listen to music, make calls, get directions, text and more—all while keeping your focus on the road. With the help of Siri, you can do all of these things without taking your hands off the wheel. It’s a very useful feature that enhances your driving experience, so make sure you learn more about Apple CarPlay if you’re new to it.

When did BMW introduce Apple CarPlay?

BMW CarPlay is fairly new. It’s only available for 2017 and newer models, leaving many BMW owners without a chance to enjoy it in their cars.

Here is the full list of BMW vehicles with Apple CarPlay as of January 2020, provided by Apple:

2017-2019 BMW 2 Series e.g. F22, F23, F45

2017-2020 BMW 3 Series e.g. F30, F31, F34, F80, G20

2017-2019 BMW 4 Series e.g. F32, F33, F36, F82, F83

2017-2019 BMW 5 Series e.g. G30, G31, F90

2017-2019 BMW 6 Series e.g. F06 F12 F13 G32

2017-2019 BMW 7 Series e.g. G11, G12

2018-2019 BMW X1 e.g. F48

2017-2019 BMW X2 e.g. F39

2017-2019 BMW X3 e.g. G01

2017-2019 BMW X4 e.g. F26 G02

2017-2019 BMW X5 e.g. F15 G05

2017-2019 BMW X6 e.g. F16

2018-2019 BMW i3

2019 BMW i8

2019 BMW Z4 G29

Although only vehicles produced after 2017 are officially compatible with Apple CarPlay, with the right hardware upgrade, you can also add CarPlay to non-factory supported vehicles. If you’re interested in upgrading your older car with BMW CarPlay (aftermarket option included), read on for some possible solutions.

If you want to know more about BMW 3 Series upgrades, check out our F30 upgrades guide.

Adding Apple CarPlay to your BMW

If you want to add Apple CarPlay to your BMW, you have a few options. Which one you choose depends on your vehicle and your budget.

Option 1: Activate your factory BMW Wireless CarPlay

BMW Apple CarPlay compatibility is limited as it requires the NBT Evo head unit with ID5 or ID6 software. In other words, your BMW needs the latest on-board computer and operating system. Even if you have a 2016, 2015 or 2014 vehicle with newer technology, your vehicle may only have the ID4 hardware or the older head unit hardware, regular NBT.

If your BMW is equipped with a compatible head unit, BimmerTech can perform software activation to enable Apple CarPlay. In some cases, you may need to add a WiFi antenna if your car doesn’t already have one, to establish a wireless connection between your iPhone and the BMW head unit. Here you can check whether your BMW needs one and if so — order it from us. With the appropriate hardware in your vehicle, BimmerTech, unlike BMW, can perform BMW CarPlay activation even if you live in a country that is not on the Apple CarPlay availability list.

Regarding the Apple CarPlay subscription, BMW announced in December 2019 that from 2019/2020 BMW owners will not have to pay any fees for cars with the latest iDrive 7.0. Of course, that only applies to the newest and compatible 2018 cars. Older BMWs incur a one-time fee of $300 (like a previous lifetime subscription). Still, the 2020 models are taking a step forward rather than backward with the finally free offering of BMW CarPlay.

If the original BMW Apple CarPlay activation is not available for your vehicle, there are still two ways to update your BMW.

Option 2: Retrofit Carplay with the CarPlay MMI Prime from BimmerTech

An easy and budget-friendly way to get CarPlay in an older BMW is with BimmerTech’s special CarPlay MMI Prime Retrofit for BMW. Fortunately, Carplay MMI is compatible with 95% of BMWs produced since 2008.

Put simply, our BMW CarPlay retrofit has a module that connects to the head unit and iDrive screen. In other words, it’s an extension that integrates with the iDrive system. No one will be able to tell that you’ve changed anything on your BMW until you actually turn on CarPlay.

Plus, it’s a simple plug-and-play upgrade that requires no coding and won’t void your warranty. BimmerTech also doesn’t charge a subscription fee for CarPlay MMI Prime – it’s a one-time upgrade.

Turn it on with a push of a button on your iDrive controller. It offers the same great CarPlay features you would expect from a 2017 or newer BMW, complete with the easy-to-use, full-screen interface available in the latest cars. And no BMW Carplay updates need to be done. As soon as a new iOS version is released, all you have to do is update your iPhone to take advantage of the latest features and improvements on your vehicle’s screen.

CarPlay MMI Prime – always up to date

As soon as a new iOS version is released, all you have to do is update your iPhone to take advantage of the latest features and improvements on your vehicle’s screen.

Apple’s latest iOS 14 update brought CarPlay an updated user interface and upgrades in several areas. Most notable is a background redesign with a user-choice wallpaper and a new Siri interface.

Now, CarPlay users can also autoplay tracks in Apple Music, get access to an EV route planner in Apple Maps, send voice messages using Siri, and share an ETA (estimated time of arrival) to contact lists.

Whether you have an original Apple CarPlay or CarPlay MMI Prime, you can still have your software updated. All it takes is a quick iOS 14 update on your iPhone and a change in Wi-Fi settings if needed, and you’re good to go with the latest CarPlay features.

Read more about CarPlay’s iOS 14 features.

CarPlay MMI Prime for even more head units

Compatibility with BimmerTech CarPlay is based on the type of in-car system – in 2020 the compatibility list expanded to include iDrives manufactured since 2008. From now on you can use CarPlay MMI Prime in most E-series, F-series and G-series vehicles with the following head units: CIC, ENTRY, ENRYNAV, ENAVEVO, NBT, NBT EVO ID4, NBT EVO ID5/ID6 and CHAMP2 ( only F3x).

To accurately verify your BMW’s compatibility with CarPlay MMI Prime or any other BMW Apple CarPlay retrofit, identify your car at the top of the page.

How to pair wireless CarPlay with your phone

BimmerTech’s solution allows your iPhone to connect to CarPlay wirelessly – just like OEM CarPlay.

To set up BMW CarPlay, you need to enable Bluetooth on your phone and pair it with the CarPlay MMI by following the on-screen instructions on your iPhone. And that’s it – all BMW CarPlay apps are ready to use! To see the process for yourself, check out our YouTube tutorial below:

How to install CarPlay MMI Prime

CarPlay MMI Prime installation is completely plug and play with no coding or permanent changes required. However, the exact installation process depends on your head unit version. For example, with NBT main units, it can take up to 2 hours of your time. You need to connect the MMI module to your vehicle’s head unit by removing the trim and faceplate on your dashboard. All necessary parts and cables are included in the kit. You will also receive installation instructions tailored to your specific BMW model. If you have any further technical questions, BimmerTech support is always at your disposal.

For a better understanding of the installation process, you can also watch our instruction video:

NOTE: While installing CarPlay MMI Prime for NBT and later head units is manageable even for novice DIYers, installing CarPlay MMI Prime for CIC is a bit more tedious and requires advanced DIY skills. So if you need help, here is a list of our installers who will manage this process for you.

To check which iDrive system you have, decode your VIN here.

Additional features of CarPlay MMI Prime

With CarPlay MMI Prime Retrofit you can also mirror your smartphone’s screen to your iDrive display, perfect for using apps that don’t have CarPlay versions. Anticipating your “Can Apple CarPlay play Netflix?” question, unfortunately there’s no way to watch HBO, Hulu, or Netflix on CarPlay or through screen mirroring (the apps block the mirroring feature). However, it is possible to stream YouTube using the iOS AirPlay feature.

You can also play videos from a USB stick via an additional USB port that comes with the kit, or connect an Android phone to use Android Auto on the dashboard of your BMW. BMW Android also works wirelessly with a certain number of smartphones. If you’re unfamiliar with Google’s Apple CarPlay competitor, check out our introduction to Android Auto.

BimmerTech’s MMI Prime uses a high-quality audio chip for excellent sound quality. It also has a built-in 8-band equalizer for additional adjustments. It’s a great feature for customizing the sound in your BMW, especially if you don’t have a multi-band equalizer in your iDrive system.

In addition to the above features, CarPlay MMI Prime has a number of compatible add-ons that can be included in your order at a much lower price:

Front and rear cameras

The MMI in the CarPlay kit lowers the cost of BimmerTech camera upgrades because they connect to the same module. Adding them to your order will give you high quality front and rear cameras that will make parking much safer.

panoramic screen

This is an 8.8 inch 1280 x 480 resolution display only available for BMW 3 Series F3x with ENTRINAV ECUs. With a panoramic widescreen, you can enjoy all the benefits of CarPlay’s full-screen mode and get the most out of navigation, music or communication apps. If you want to see what the installation looks like, watch our BMW CarPlay video.

Option 3: Retrofit CarPlay with a head unit upgrade

To get the full original CarPlay experience in an older vehicle, you need to update your BMW iDrive head unit to NBT EVO with ID5/ID6 software. Although this is a more advanced upgrade, it comes with many additional benefits such as: B. an HD screen upgrade, iDrive touch controller, full coding by BimmerTech, pre-installed CarPlay and BMW apps and more.

A full head unit and software upgrade includes:

Full FSC retrofit activation including navigation, voice control, BMW apps and CarPlay

NBT Evo head unit with ID5/ID6 software

High definition 8.8″/10.25″ screen (depending on your BMW model)

iDrive Touch controller

Any other parts required for the retrofit as per your vehicle specification

Full retrofit coding

The latest GPS maps for your region

DVD/Video-in-motion activation

To review the installation process, watch our video tutorial on installing NBT EVO ID5/ID6 on BMW 3 Series F30.

If you don’t need to add all the bells and whistles and just want CarPlay, you most likely don’t need to upgrade the entire head unit set. Your vehicle may already have some of the required parts, e.g. B. the HD screen, so you can save up to $ 1000. This will depend on your BMW model and year – please contact us with your VIN for more information.

Many BMWs from 2016 or 2015 are equipped with NBT EVO ID4. Luckily, in this case your car only needs one or two parts – the aftermarket head unit and possibly the ATM module.

Older 2015, 2014 and 2013 cars with regular NBT (not NBT EVO) need different head unit upgrade but already come with required 8.8 inch HD screen and touch controller.

Cars with even older head units (ENTRY, ENRYNAV) require a more complicated upgrade – the entire NBT EVO ID5/ID6 set needs to be upgraded.

Once your BMW is equipped with the right parts, all that remains is to activate CarPlay. In case of upgrading the entire NBT EVO head unit set, CarPlay comes already installed and ready to use.

Want to find out what parts your BMW might need to upgrade to a newer iDrive? Enter your VIN on the NBT EVO ID5/ID6 product page and receive the appropriate retrofit link.

For detailed information and assistance on retrofitting Apple CarPlay in your specific vehicle, please contact us. We’ll help you choose the right upgrade kit to make your CarPlay upgrade easy with no extra parts you don’t need to install.

Got an iPhone and want to use it in your old and used car that you’ve been driving around for ages? Sure, you could stick with using your vehicle’s archaic Bluetooth system, but that’s only good for making calls or hearing that annoying navigation voice through your speakers. However, if you want true iPhone integration, your best bet is to get Apple Carplay. So let’s look at how to install Apple CarPlay in an older car.

What is Apple Carplay and how does it work?

Apple CarPlay in a Subaru BRZ | Will Ireland/MacFormat Magazine/Future via Getty Images

Apple CarPlay is the brand’s in-car infotainment system that has been on the market since 2014. Apple says CarPlay is a smarter, safer way to use your iPhone while driving. Instead of having to look at your phone (which you should never do while driving), drivers see everything on a vehicle’s infotainment touchscreen.

According to Which Car, Apple CarPlay mirrors some of the applications used on iPhones and allows drivers to control apps using the touchscreen. Users can use Siri and Apple Maps, play music, make calls, and the application even reads text messages aloud.

How to add Apple CarPlay to a car?

The easiest way to add Apple CarPlay to any car would be through an aftermarket radio. Some vehicles are easy to edit if you’re the do-it-yourself type. That way you can probably figure out how to uninstall the factory radio and install an aftermarket head unit with no problems. However, if you are not that skilled, we recommend hiring a professional. Fortunately, most stereo installers today can do a custom install (if required) in almost any car on the market today.

Apple CarPlay can be retrofitted

While most cars will require replacing all stereo hardware, some vehicles may only need a software update. For example, back in 2018, the automaker offered Mazda owners (2014 model year or newer) equipped with the MZD Connect system a $500 upgrade kit to add Apple CarPlay to their vehicle’s stock audio systems to install, according to Who Car. Some Hyundai models have also been eligible for retrofits. Before you spend your money, we recommend checking whether an upgrade for your car is covered.

Do you want a single or double DIN system?

If you choose Apple CarPlay and need to go the aftermarket route, you need to determine which aftermarket system is best for you. Much older cars (10 years or older) will likely have what is called a “single din” opening for a radio, while newer ones will have a double din.

According to Gear Brain, the word DIN stands for “German Institute for Standardization,” a German term that refers to the standard stereo size that the country’s automaker put in cars in the 1980s.

What are the best double din systems?

We won’t list many different systems here as there are hundreds to choose from. However, if your car uses a double DIN slot, we recommend a unit like the Pioneer AVH-W440NEX offered on Amazon. There are many other similar systems out there, but the important part is that it comes with everything you need to fully integrate your car’s audio system to use Apple CarPlay. This system and many others can also be wired for a rear view camera, which is very convenient.

What are the best single DIN systems?

What if your car has a single DIN opening and cannot accommodate a large touch screen? Don’t worry, there are many systems with “fold-out” screens, such as B. this Pioneer model presented at Crutchfield. The screens are wired like the double DIN variant, but are much more compact and fit in almost any car with a smaller radio housing.

Now that you know what it takes to get the ultimate iPhone integration in your car, we encourage you to shop around to see what works best for your vehicle and budget. Not all systems are the same, so do your research ahead of time.

RELATED: Oldest Cars With Apple CarPlay: Find a Used Vehicle That Can Connect to Your iPhone

Technology moves fast; Every year there is a wave of new phones and laptops that incorporate the latest features and drop features that used to be commonplace. It’s not easy keeping a car that might still be in production a decade after its launch, up to date with the changing technology landscape.

To ensure your vehicle doesn’t lag behind everything else you use, BMW regularly releases new software updates that improve multimedia support and compatibility with a wide range of popular mobile devices.

The big questions are: How do I update the BMW software? How do you find out about them? What is the latest software version from BMW? How do you know if they are BMW for your model? And more importantly, can you install the updates yourself or do you have to go to your dealer?

PLEASE NOTE: BimmerTech cannot provide support for software updates provided by BMW or other companies. For further assistance with updating the software of your BMW, please contact your BMW dealer directly.

BimmerTech iDrive software update vs. BMW ConnectedDrive software updates

Let us give you a quick overview of how it works. There are basically two types of BMW iDrive software updates.

The BimmerTech iDrive software update is an update that updates the software version (i-level) of your iDrive system. It is needed when installing new software or hardware that should only work with the latest software versions. The update will be performed by the BimmerTech technician via a remote coding session and will take up to 1 hour. We strongly advise against doing this without a valid reason. BMW ConnectedDrive software update or media software update. This can include things like multimedia, bluetooth, internet connection or mobile compatibility with the latest version of Apple iOS or Samsung/Android system. Any owner can install this type of update themselves as long as their car has a combox that works with iDrive and improves many technology features in your BMW. Newer NBT and later iDrive systems have built-in combox functionality to make things even easier. But older models can also be retrofitted with iDrive (at Bimmer-Tech.net) and Combox (check out the BimmerTech Combox Retrofit Kit), adding greater multimedia capabilities.

BimmerTech iDrive software update

When it comes to updating your car’s software, most people want to get more out of the iDrive infotainment system. At BimmerTech we offer iDrive software updates for a number of situations. What’s more, our innovative remote process means you don’t even have to leave your home. Just connect to our experienced technician over the internet and all the hard work will be done for you. With our MINI/BMW iDrive software update you can update the software of your iDrive individually to solve compatibility or other problems.

Please note that iDrive software updates of this type are not recommended unless they are required to resolve specific issues and are not required as part of your vehicle’s routine maintenance. With that in mind, it is strongly recommended that you contact us before ordering to discuss whether an iDrive software update is right for your needs.

How do I know if my BMW needs an iDrive software update?

Updating your iDrive software is only necessary in a few situations. For example, if you want to enable a specific feature (like full-screen mode for Apple CarPlay) but your vehicle’s current software version doesn’t support it, updating your software could be the answer. It can also be the solution when encountering compatibility issues with third-party hardware that is not designed to work with older iDrive software versions.

Without a clear goal in mind or a specific issue to fix, your BMW almost never needs a software update.

How long does a BMW iDrive software update take?

Updating your BMW iDrive software only takes about an hour.

During this time, however, your vehicle must be connected to a battery charger of at least 15A with the ignition on. Without a charger, you run the risk of your car failing during the session, especially if your battery isn’t already fully charged. If your BMW shuts down before the update is complete, it can cause critical errors in your vehicle’s electronics.

BMW ConnectedDrive software update (remote software upgrade)

Download the software update from the BMW website

If your vehicle comes with a newer iDrive system from the factory, or is an older vehicle with a factory installed combox, you can check BMW’s software update website for the latest ConnectedDrive software version for your vehicle.

After entering your chassis number, BMW will check its documents to see which software is already installed in your vehicle. If there is a newer version, you can download the file (e.g. upd07044 or UPD11024) directly from the BMW website and transfer it to a formatted USB stick. By inserting the flash drive into the USB port, you can install the software update. You can then immediately connect a wider range of devices to your BMW and enjoy more multimedia functions in your car without having to drive to the dealer.

If a newer version of the software is not available for your vehicle, you will be informed of this on the BMW software update website. In this case, a simple software update is not enough to add missing features.

Download software update via My BMW App

The remote software upgrade is also available via the My BMW app. The My BMW app included in the BMW Connected Drive package is an application that connects your Apple or Android smartphone to your vehicle. You can use it for multiple functions like programming destinations before you get in your car, setting the air conditioning, unlocking your doors, but also downloading a remote software upgrade over Wi-Fi.

How to perform the software upgrade via the My BMW app:

Enter the app and find the Remote Software Upgrade menu. Go to the remote software upgrade settings and select the “Wi-Fi Only” download. Click Start Download. When the download is complete, connect your phone to your vehicle via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Check your connections in the Mobile Devices menu in your iDrive settings. To connect to Wi-Fi, click New Device.

Select “Web, Apps”.

Scan the QR code with your mobile phone.

You will be given a Wi-Fi token which you must accept in order to connect. When the Wi-Fi connection is established, the software upgrade will be uploaded during your ride.

BMW iDrive coding

If your BMW is still missing important features, the third option is coding.

BimmerTech offers BMW remote coding to improve connectivity with your smartphone and third party apps with coding options such as Enhanced Bluetooth, BMW Apps and Apple CarPlay. Like updating your software, BMW coding can be as simple as plugging a flash drive into your vehicle’s USB port.

BimmerTech’s multimedia lineup for BMW also includes a hardware upgrade from Apple CarPlay, as well as our SmartView HD ATV4 and SmartView HD Flex, which add Apple TV and smartphone mirroring support respectively.

Do you want to know how to code your BMW at home? Find out everything about the BMW coding.

Updating an aftermarket iDrive or Combox

You can only download and install a software update file from BMW if your Combox or compatible iDrive is factory installed. If you installed the BimmerTech Combox Retrofit Kit or the BimmerTech NBT Navigation Retrofit Kit, BMW’s records still reflect that your car does not have the new hardware and therefore does not show that you opted for the software update to qualify. In this case, all you have to do is contact us and we will send you the official BMW update.

Regardless of whether you obtain the update directly from BMW or from us, installing the software update is no more complicated than updating the map on your navigation device. Simply save the file to a USB stick or other USB memory stick, insert it into the armrest USB port and bring up the settings menu in iDrive. Look for the Software Update option in the menu and follow the on-screen instructions.

Quite easy. But there’s one last question: What if you add a combox or NBT navigation with a BimmerTech upgrade kit and BMW eventually rolls out a major major software update? Do not worry. Simply remove the Combox/NBT before taking your BMW to your dealer for the update. Then reinstall it when you get it back. If, as it sometimes does, it needs to be re-coded, just contact our tech team and we’ll have it up and running in no time.

Apple fans will also be happy to be able to retrofit Carplay to an older BMW if they choose to retrofit NBT EVO with ID5/ID6 in their BMW.

Bottom line, iDrive and Combox Media features can make driving and using your BMW infinitely more enjoyable. So if you have the opportunity to upgrade, we say go for it. And of course, if you want to do these upgrades yourself, we’re here to help. Do you have any questions or do you still need instructions? Just contact us!

PLEASE NOTE: BimmerTech cannot provide support for software updates provided by BMW or other companies. For further assistance with updating the software of your BMW, please contact your BMW dealer directly. The information contained in this post is purely advisory.

BMW is temporarily delivering new cars without Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality as the automaker switches its chip supplier (via Automotive News Europe).

The new chips built into many BMWs made this year will require updated software to run Apple “CarPlay” and Android Auto. BMW customers who receive a new car without “CarPlay” are being asked by dealerships to wait for an over-the-air update that will enable the functionality “by the end of June at the latest”.

It’s not clear how many BMW models will be affected, but a large number of customers in the US, Italy, Spain, UK and France have posted online that their new vehicles will be delivered without “CarPlay”. Affected models contain the code “6P1” in their specification.

While some BMW owners will have to temporarily forego “CarPlay” functionality, BMW is switching chip suppliers to strengthen its supply chain over the long term amid the ongoing impact of global chip shortages, which could ease component shortages in the second half of the year.

BMW offers one of the most integrated experiences with Apple’s ecosystem, with support for Digital Key, Ultra Wideband Digital Key Plus and a feature-rich dual-screen wireless CarPlay experience. BMW only started offering CarPlay in 2016 and came under fire for charging a $80-a-year fee to access it before declining the subscription after receiving negative feedback.

If available in your BMW, you can use Apple CarPlay to connect your iPhone to your BMW and use iOS apps on the integrated dashboard display. You can listen to music, make calls, get directions, text and more—all while keeping your focus on the road. With the help of Siri, you can do all of these things without taking your hands off the wheel. It’s a very useful feature that enhances your driving experience, so make sure you learn more about Apple CarPlay if you’re new to it.

When did BMW introduce Apple CarPlay?

BMW CarPlay is fairly new. It’s only available for 2017 and newer models, leaving many BMW owners without a chance to enjoy it in their cars.

Here is the full list of BMW vehicles with Apple CarPlay as of January 2020, provided by Apple:

2017-2019 BMW 2 Series e.g. F22, F23, F45

2017-2020 BMW 3 Series e.g. F30, F31, F34, F80, G20

2017-2019 BMW 4 Series e.g. F32, F33, F36, F82, F83

2017-2019 BMW 5 Series e.g. G30, G31, F90

2017-2019 BMW 6 Series e.g. F06 F12 F13 G32

2017-2019 BMW 7 Series e.g. G11, G12

2018-2019 BMW X1 e.g. F48

2017-2019 BMW X2 e.g. F39

2017-2019 BMW X3 e.g. G01

2017-2019 BMW X4 e.g. F26 G02

2017-2019 BMW X5 e.g. F15 G05

2017-2019 BMW X6 e.g. F16

2018-2019 BMW i3

2019 BMW i8

2019 BMW Z4 G29

Although only vehicles produced after 2017 are officially compatible with Apple CarPlay, with the right hardware upgrade, you can also add CarPlay to non-factory supported vehicles. If you’re interested in upgrading your older car with BMW CarPlay (aftermarket option included), read on for some possible solutions.

If you want to know more about BMW 3 Series upgrades, check out our F30 upgrades guide.

Adding Apple CarPlay to your BMW

If you want to add Apple CarPlay to your BMW, you have a few options. Which one you choose depends on your vehicle and your budget.

Option 1: Activate your factory BMW Wireless CarPlay

BMW Apple CarPlay compatibility is limited as it requires the NBT Evo head unit with ID5 or ID6 software. In other words, your BMW needs the latest on-board computer and operating system. Even if you have a 2016, 2015 or 2014 vehicle with newer technology, your vehicle may only have the ID4 hardware or the older head unit hardware, regular NBT.

If your BMW is equipped with a compatible head unit, BimmerTech can perform software activation to enable Apple CarPlay. In some cases, you may need to add a WiFi antenna if your car doesn’t already have one, to establish a wireless connection between your iPhone and the BMW head unit. Here you can check whether your BMW needs one and if so — order it from us. With the appropriate hardware in your vehicle, BimmerTech, unlike BMW, can perform BMW CarPlay activation even if you live in a country that is not on the Apple CarPlay availability list.

Regarding the Apple CarPlay subscription, BMW announced in December 2019 that from 2019/2020 BMW owners will not have to pay any fees for cars with the latest iDrive 7.0. Of course, that only applies to the newest and compatible 2018 cars. Older BMWs incur a one-time fee of $300 (like a previous lifetime subscription). Still, the 2020 models are taking a step forward rather than backward with the finally free offering of BMW CarPlay.

If the original BMW Apple CarPlay activation is not available for your vehicle, there are still two ways to update your BMW.

Option 2: Retrofit Carplay with the CarPlay MMI Prime from BimmerTech

An easy and budget-friendly way to get CarPlay in an older BMW is with BimmerTech’s special CarPlay MMI Prime Retrofit for BMW. Fortunately, Carplay MMI is compatible with 95% of BMWs produced since 2008.

Put simply, our BMW CarPlay retrofit has a module that connects to the head unit and iDrive screen. In other words, it’s an extension that integrates with the iDrive system. No one will be able to tell that you’ve changed anything on your BMW until you actually turn on CarPlay.

Plus, it’s a simple plug-and-play upgrade that requires no coding and won’t void your warranty. BimmerTech also doesn’t charge a subscription fee for CarPlay MMI Prime – it’s a one-time upgrade.

Turn it on with a push of a button on your iDrive controller. It offers the same great CarPlay features you would expect from a 2017 or newer BMW, complete with the easy-to-use, full-screen interface available in the latest cars. And no BMW Carplay updates need to be done. As soon as a new iOS version is released, all you have to do is update your iPhone to take advantage of the latest features and improvements on your vehicle’s screen.

CarPlay MMI Prime – always up to date

As soon as a new iOS version is released, all you have to do is update your iPhone to take advantage of the latest features and improvements on your vehicle’s screen.

Apple’s latest iOS 14 update brought CarPlay an updated user interface and upgrades in several areas. Most notable is a background redesign with a user-choice wallpaper and a new Siri interface.

Now, CarPlay users can also autoplay tracks in Apple Music, get access to an EV route planner in Apple Maps, send voice messages using Siri, and share an ETA (estimated time of arrival) to contact lists.

Whether you have an original Apple CarPlay or CarPlay MMI Prime, you can still have your software updated. All it takes is a quick iOS 14 update on your iPhone and a change in Wi-Fi settings if needed, and you’re good to go with the latest CarPlay features.

Read more about CarPlay’s iOS 14 features.

CarPlay MMI Prime for even more head units

Compatibility with BimmerTech CarPlay is based on the type of in-car system – in 2020 the compatibility list expanded to include iDrives manufactured since 2008. From now on you can use CarPlay MMI Prime in most E-series, F-series and G-series vehicles with the following head units: CIC, ENTRY, ENRYNAV, ENAVEVO, NBT, NBT EVO ID4, NBT EVO ID5/ID6 and CHAMP2 ( only F3x).

To accurately verify your BMW’s compatibility with CarPlay MMI Prime or any other BMW Apple CarPlay retrofit, identify your car at the top of the page.

How to pair wireless CarPlay with your phone

BimmerTech’s solution allows your iPhone to connect to CarPlay wirelessly – just like OEM CarPlay.

To set up BMW CarPlay, you need to enable Bluetooth on your phone and pair it with the CarPlay MMI by following the on-screen instructions on your iPhone. And that’s it – all BMW CarPlay apps are ready to use! To see the process for yourself, check out our YouTube tutorial below:

How to install CarPlay MMI Prime

CarPlay MMI Prime installation is completely plug and play with no coding or permanent changes required. However, the exact installation process depends on your head unit version. For example, with NBT main units, it can take up to 2 hours of your time. You need to connect the MMI module to your vehicle’s head unit by removing the trim and faceplate on your dashboard. All necessary parts and cables are included in the kit. You will also receive installation instructions tailored to your specific BMW model. If you have any further technical questions, BimmerTech support is always at your disposal.

For a better understanding of the installation process, you can also watch our instruction video:

NOTE: While installing CarPlay MMI Prime for NBT and later head units is manageable even for novice DIYers, installing CarPlay MMI Prime for CIC is a bit more tedious and requires advanced DIY skills. So if you need help, here is a list of our installers who will manage this process for you.

To check which iDrive system you have, decode your VIN here.

Additional features of CarPlay MMI Prime

With CarPlay MMI Prime Retrofit you can also mirror your smartphone’s screen to your iDrive display, perfect for using apps that don’t have CarPlay versions. Anticipating your “Can Apple CarPlay play Netflix?” question, unfortunately there’s no way to watch HBO, Hulu, or Netflix on CarPlay or through screen mirroring (the apps block the mirroring feature). However, it is possible to stream YouTube using the iOS AirPlay feature.

You can also play videos from a USB stick via an additional USB port that comes with the kit, or connect an Android phone to use Android Auto on the dashboard of your BMW. BMW Android also works wirelessly with a certain number of smartphones. If you’re unfamiliar with Google’s Apple CarPlay competitor, check out our introduction to Android Auto.

BimmerTech’s MMI Prime uses a high-quality audio chip for excellent sound quality. It also has a built-in 8-band equalizer for additional adjustments. It’s a great feature for customizing the sound in your BMW, especially if you don’t have a multi-band equalizer in your iDrive system.

In addition to the above features, CarPlay MMI Prime has a number of compatible add-ons that can be included in your order at a much lower price:

Front and rear cameras

The MMI in the CarPlay kit lowers the cost of BimmerTech camera upgrades because they connect to the same module. Adding them to your order will give you high quality front and rear cameras that will make parking much safer.

panoramic screen

This is an 8.8 inch 1280 x 480 resolution display only available for BMW 3 Series F3x with ENTRINAV ECUs. With a panoramic widescreen, you can enjoy all the benefits of CarPlay’s full-screen mode and get the most out of navigation, music or communication apps. If you want to see what the installation looks like, watch our BMW CarPlay video.

Option 3: Retrofit CarPlay with a head unit upgrade

To get the full original CarPlay experience in an older vehicle, you need to update your BMW iDrive head unit to NBT EVO with ID5/ID6 software. Although this is a more advanced upgrade, it comes with many additional benefits such as: B. an HD screen upgrade, iDrive touch controller, full coding by BimmerTech, pre-installed CarPlay and BMW apps and more.

A full head unit and software upgrade includes:

Full FSC retrofit activation including navigation, voice control, BMW apps and CarPlay

NBT Evo head unit with ID5/ID6 software

High definition 8.8″/10.25″ screen (depending on your BMW model)

iDrive Touch controller

Any other parts required for the retrofit as per your vehicle specification

Full retrofit coding

The latest GPS maps for your region

DVD/Video-in-motion activation

To review the installation process, watch our video tutorial on installing NBT EVO ID5/ID6 on BMW 3 Series F30.

If you don’t need to add all the bells and whistles and just want CarPlay, you most likely don’t need to upgrade the entire head unit set. Your vehicle may already have some of the required parts, e.g. B. the HD screen, so you can save up to $ 1000. This will depend on your BMW model and year – please contact us with your VIN for more information.

Many BMWs from 2016 or 2015 are equipped with NBT EVO ID4. Luckily, in this case your car only needs one or two parts – the aftermarket head unit and possibly the ATM module.

Older 2015, 2014 and 2013 cars with regular NBT (not NBT EVO) need different head unit upgrade but already come with required 8.8 inch HD screen and touch controller.

Cars with even older head units (ENTRY, ENRYNAV) require a more complicated upgrade – the entire NBT EVO ID5/ID6 set needs to be upgraded.

Once your BMW is equipped with the right parts, all that remains is to activate CarPlay. In case of upgrading the entire NBT EVO head unit set, CarPlay comes already installed and ready to use.

Want to find out what parts your BMW might need to upgrade to a newer iDrive? Enter your VIN on the NBT EVO ID5/ID6 product page and receive the appropriate retrofit link.

For detailed information and assistance on retrofitting Apple CarPlay in your specific vehicle, please contact us. We’ll help you choose the right upgrade kit to make your CarPlay upgrade easy with no extra parts you don’t need to install.