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Earlier this year, just in time for the June US market launch, the BMW Group was
the first automobile manufacturer in the world to offer full integration of the
innovative Apple iPhone in the vehicle’s operating systems in most BMW models.
In addition to the BMW models, all MINI models will now also be equipped for
the Apple iPhone in time for its European premiere which is expected at the end
of 2007.
On the press days of the IAA in Frankfurt, the BMW Group will be presenting
full integration of the mobile phone with music capabilities for all MINI models
as well as for the BMW 6 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 1 Series and
BMW X5.
The solution of the BMW Group enables convenient operation of both the
telephone and audio functions of the Apple iPhone in the automobile.
This is made possible by connecting the versatile mobile phone to the
operating systems of the vehicle models.
The music files and the signals for operating the iPod functions are
transferred to the vehicle’s audio system by means of a cable adaptor available
for the USB audio interface in BMW and MINI models. The iPhone can also be
charged using the same connection. The requirement for comprehensive integration
of the telephone functions is the mobile phone preparation feature with
Bluetooth interface from the relevant BMW or MINI models.
Until now, the telephone and iPod functions have been separated in vehicles
since they were operated via different end consumer products. For the smart
phone innovation, the BMW Group has developed a joint platform for both
functions. With the adapted software, a music program which the driver is
listening to through the vehicle speakers during a phone call is automatically
stopped for the duration of the call, starting again at the same place as soon
as the call is over. While the music is paused, the speakers and microphone of
the hands-free facility are activated. When the telephone call is terminated,
the system automatically switches back to music mode.
In conjunction with the operating system BMW iDrive, the telephone functions
“Address book” and “Hands free” can be operated using the Controller in the
centre console, as well as music selection and play. The intuitively operated,
ergonomically placed Controller in the centre console makes use of the mobile
phone during travel particularly simple and safe.
In the MINI models, activated smart phone functions are shown either in the
display of the navigation system or, if the latter is not available, in the
radio unit. If a MINI navigation system is installed, the MINI Joystick
operating system can be used to control the telephone and audio functions of the
Apple iPhone.
With the early integration of the new mobile phone, the BMW Group once again
demonstrates its technological leadership. All in all, the BMW Group sees itself
as a pacesetter for change within the automotive industry, which involves more
and more software being installed in the motor vehicles of today and tomorrow –
not least for telecommunications and infotainment. Since the BMW Group has
offered an interface for the Apple iPod since 2004, the full integration of the
same manufacturer’s mobile phone with music capabilities was a logical
consequence.
As a supplementary special equipment feature, a snap-in adaptor for BMW and
MINI models will follow in 2008 which has been specially developed for the Apple
iPhone. This will also incorporate a wireless connection of the mobile phone to
the external vehicle antenna, thus further improving reception quality. What is
more, other smart phones will also be fully integrated in future in the same way
as the Apple iPhone.
Details surrounding iPhone compatibility in Australian-delivered BMW and MINI
models will be announced closer to the Australian launch of the Apple iPhone.
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