BMW Connected Drive app/integration

Feature Suggestions
1

Some time ago, someone created a thread about creating a Plex app for BMW’s Connected Drive.

That seems to have died. However, in perusing through the interwebs, I saw this…

Now, that’s on a Mini, however, it should all be part of the same ecosystem within BMW. And, although not explicitly mentioned, it’s possible that could be part of his hack to get it working.

I’ve just checked through mine and I see no ability to expose Plex or Plexamp, nor are there any options anywhere within the BMW side. The Connected Drive app has been deprecated and is now this My BMW thing, but I assume it’s all the same.

For the record, I’m talking about iDrive 4-6, not the new 7.

Is the above image something legit? Is/was there some separation between BMW/Mini in this regard? Is there/have there been plans to expose Plex/Plexamp here? If not, can there be?

2

The chances of getting Plex integration into any manufacturer-specific environment are very slim.
Chances are a bit better if we are talking about “Android auto” or “Apple Carplay”-compatible solutions.

3

I’m assuming there’s a resource constraint? In this instance, I believe there is an SDK that exists, and appreciate how convoluted it could end up…

4

Unfortunately, the existence of an SDK doesn’t change for instance a scarcity of developer hours.

5

Guess I should learn something new. :grinning_face_with_smiling_eyes:

6

According to the BMW website, there is already an integration with Android Auto available. (link in german Android Auto BMW Smartphone Integration | BMW.de )

There is also a page to verify compatibility between mobile phones and BMW over Bluetooth. Bluetooth Kompatibilitäts Check

Maybe your phone can already be connected? They are also mentioning a means to update the compatibility “drivers” of your car for newer phone models.

7

Thanks.

I should have specified that this is an iPhone in this case. And while there is integration with CarPlay, I think there are some oddities regarding that (to which I have create another thread). For anything <iDrive 7 however, Android Auto isn’t an option.

I would think that “native” integration to the corresponding infotainment setup would work a bit better/be more seamless.

8

No doubt about that. But the chances for this to happen are very slim.