Apple and BMW team up to produce car audio device



By Kasper Jade
Published: 12:00 PM EST

Apple and BMW have joined forces to codevelop an audio adapter that will soon allow owners of recent BMW models to connect their iPods to their car audio system, sources said.

Click link (http://www.appleinsider.com/article.php?id=502) for complete story.

This is good news in the sense that Apple sees the possibility of tighter integration between iPods and OEM car audio.

However, it doesn't help the fact that (frankly) BMW OEM audio systems suck big time. Any off-the-shelf Altis or Lancer sold here in the Philippines has nicer sound than a 3 series sedan costing three to four times as much.

You are so right, Vic. And the problem with those BMW OEM audio systems is that you can't even upgrade to third party brands without major hassles. Plus BMWs "upgrade" sounds just as bad as the original device. Sayang.

Originally posted by vicicasas
This is good news in the sense that Apple sees the possibility of tighter integration between iPods and OEM car audio.

However, it doesn't help the fact that (frankly) BMW OEM audio systems suck big time. Any off-the-shelf Altis or Lancer sold here in the Philippines has nicer sound than a 3 series sedan costing three to four times as much.

sana wireless...

Originally posted by vicicasas
This is good news in the sense that Apple sees the possibility of tighter integration between iPods and OEM car audio.

However, it doesn't help the fact that (frankly) BMW OEM audio systems suck big time. Any off-the-shelf Altis or Lancer sold here in the Philippines has nicer sound than a 3 series sedan costing three to four times as much.

I agree that stock sound systems on most Bimmers suck. However, the new 5, 6 and 7-series models offer the premium grade Harman Kardon 7.1-channel Logic 7 system as an upgrade. I've experienced one such system installed on a 745i. Vic, I must admit that I was way way impressed. Considering that a car is really not an ideal environment for absolute sound reproduction, the Logic 7 rivals most high-end home stereos. I'm not an expert, but I do appreciate clean crisp sound with decent bass response.

speaking of stock car audio.. i like the ones from xc70.. the speakers are from dynaudio. pretty nice sounding :)

http://www.macminute.com/images/db/ipodadapterad.jpg

Tyring to make it out:
"The first seamless integration of iPod and automobile. Connect with your music like never before. With the optional installation of an integrated adapter developed by BMW and Apple – now available for the BMW 3 Series, X3, and Z4—you can connect your iPod through the existing audio system and…and…my Super Sight’s failing…and now you'll really love waiting in your blinging bimmer while your girl gets the overpriced espresso...aargh...

Now if they'd make them compatible with my '03 318i and my '94 316i. I would have no need for my iTrip anymore.

The iPod and BMW integration seems to be whacked.

check the article:
http://www.gizmodo.com/archives/gizmodo-exclusive-ipod-your-bmw-secrets-revealed-016383.php

Gizmodo has been given the details of Apple and BMW's new 'iPod Your BMW' campaign by one of our favorite kinds of tipsters, the kind that likes to remain anonymous. Here are the details.


First of all, most BMWs on the road won't be able to use the BMW iPod connection kit. Not only does the kit only work with 2002 or later 3 Series, X3 SAVs, or Z4 Roadsters, any car with optional built-in Navigation system, cassette deck, satellite radio, or CD change won't be able to use it, presumably because of the lack of dash space for the digital readout and because the auxiliary audio wiring is already taken up. So unless you've got the stock Standard or Premium sound (and the right car), you're pretty much out of luck -- unless you're buying new, then knock yourself out.


Get the rest of the details after the jump.


Our source has a lack of info on exact price, although dealership installation charges are being quoted at around $235. Hopefully that includes the hardware, as well, but then again, we are talking BMW, the company that requires you to use their own magic oil (no hate mail unless it's delivered in the new BMW you're giving me, thanks).


The iPod slips inside a dock in the glove box and controls are on the steering wheel, and they look to be pretty basic, with only an track up/track down selection and what looks to be a mute button. BMW asks that you create five selectable BMW-specific playlists (probably something like the ones I made in my iTunes picture to the right) on your iPod which are controlled by the 1 through 5 button on the dash, while selecting 6 will play through your entire iPod library. This implies you won't have as much control over your iPod as you would with its native interface. If that's the case, that will be a serious ding against the usefulness of the kit.


So there you have it, an expensive kit that lets you tie your iPod directly into your BMW's existing hardware, while severely limiting the usefulness of it at the same time. If you're going to hide away your iPod in the glove compartment, it would be nice to not hide away the interface that makes it unique, as well.


Related


iPod Your BMW: BMW and Apple Add Factory-Option Adapter [Gizmodo]

Now this is more like it!


http://apple.weblogsinc.com/entry/2487385526326039/

It's out! $149 at your local BMW dealer

The announcement:
http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2004/jun/21bmw.html

The Ad:
http://www.apple.com/ipod/bmw/ad/

Downloaded & saved the TVC! Very cool!

Now if I could only make enough to afford buying a Bimmer! :(

Some BMW models, like the X-5 that MUGger Elbert test drove last year, feature Bluetooth integration as well.

Nice!

[Edited on 6-22-2004 by Arel]

Hah! Finally. The most expensive accessory for the iPod - a BMW.

I'm wondering if any local BMW dealership here in the Phil. will offer this soon? What do you think guys? :)

Originally posted by carlodl
I'm wondering if any local BMW dealership here in the Phil. will offer this soon? What do you think guys? :)

Uuuy Carlo, excited! This would definitely make up for the bad experience you had with the Belkin in your Expedition. :lol:

Fyi, BMW's lead is already being followed by the others...

Lat time I checked, there is already an "iPoddable" 04 Mini Cooper, and a special, limited "iPod" edition Smart car (that perfectly matches the white iPod)...

check it at www.miniusa.com and www.smart.com :blush: