New ‘BMW interface for Apple iPod’ debuts with expanded model availability and features
Wednesday, April 12, 2006 - 10:38 AM EDT
BMW today announced the debut of a new BMW Interface for iPod that will enable seamless integration of the iPod for the newest generation of BMW models. With the new BMW Interface for iPod this means that seamless iPod connectivity will be available for every current BMW model.
The new BMW Interface for iPod will be available for owners of the new BMW 3 Series Sedans and Sports Wagons as well as the 5, 6, and 7 Series. It will also be available for the new M5 Sedan and M6 Coupe. It will enable audiophiles to bring their entire music collections with them, plug directly and effortlessly into a superior sound system while maintaining uncompromised control over their driving experience. Since the new Interface is compatible with SIRIUS satellite radio as well as the recently introduced HD Radio, owners will be able to enjoy a broad selection of high fidelity broadcast music sources as well. The original BMW iPod Adapter will continue to be available for 2002 and later BMW models: X3, X5, Z4, and previous generation 3 Series.
The original BMW iPod Adapter was the world's first seamless integration between iPod and a vehicle audio system. The new Interface will also allow users to incorporate their iPods directly into their car's sound system, but with the newly available capability to sort their music according to their own playlists, as well as by artist, album, genre, podcast, and finally, a random selection of 500 songs from the user library. Artist, album, and song title will appear in the Display Monitor.
The seamless integration of iPod makes it effortless for drivers to control their music through their existing audio system and the multifunction steering wheel. The new BMW Interface for iPod enables drivers to easily access their entire music library, shuffle songs, skip between tracks and adjust volume -- all of this with no loss of sound quality or driving control.
The new Interface is compatible with all iPods with a dock connector, including the iPod nano and the fifth generation iPod. The BMW iPod Interfaces integrate the iPod through a direct connection in the BMW glovebox, providing outstanding sound quality and constant power to the iPod all while your iPod remains protected and out of view.
The new BMW iPod Interface will be available for customers to purchase at BMW centers beginning in July 2006. Pricing has not been determined.
Features and operation may vary depending on vehicle model and option content. Consumers should check with their BMW centers for specific application restrictions or visit: http://www.ipodyourbmw.com
MacDailyNews Take: In related news, Edsel Aftermarket announced the debut of the Edsel Interface for Dell DJ Ditty that will enable the unique integration of the soon-to-be-discontinued with the long-defunct. Napster subscription sold separately.
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I for one have been waiting for a real solution to get my iPod in my 2006 5 Series.
I currently use the ExtremeMac radio adapter and it is fine for podcasts, but music sounds horrible. I am calling my dealer right now... of course they will have no clue what I am talking about seeing as how the BMW website hasn't even been updated yet. I wish people would coordinate their ads and press releases!