My BMW 3 Series G20: Added Apple CarPlay with Bimmertech MMI

Various MMI units are available in the market but I was more comfortable with the Bimmertech option even though it's almost twice the cost at around $600.

BHPian helterskelter recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

So, added Apple CarPlay to the Sport variant with Bimmertech MMI. Total time taken for installation was 1 hour. I was surprised at the seamless integration and the ease with which the installation can be done. As some other members had pointed in their posts, various MMI units are available in the market but I was more comfortable with the Bimmertech option even though it's almost twice the cost at around $600 for the unit plus whatever one pays for installation.

Pros

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto both.
• Seamless integration with the Idrive controller and the steering wheel controller.
• Siri integration.
• CarPlay activates as soon as one enters the car without the need to activate it or press any buttons.
• Fullscreen Google Maps navigation.

Cons

• High cost of the unit, cheaper options are available in plenty but was not sure about their reliability.
• Lack of touchscreen support, which was not a dealbreaker for me. CarPlay can be fully used with the Idrive controller as well as the steering wheel controllers.

Quite happy with the performance of the unit and with the analogue dials and now with CarPlay activated, I would say the Sport variant is now totally up to date.

Here's what BHPian itwasntme had to say about the matter:

Super glad to hear this! If you're comfortable, post the relevant installer details, etc. here. Unsure if I will go for it, but always good to know there is a way out. I am an Android guy but wifey is iOS, so both will be happy including the wireless bit too.

Here's what BHPian kartikv1 had to say about the matter:

I have a 330i sport and am looking to get this Bimmertech Mmi upgrade.

Can you confirm if aux activation coding is needed when I order from their site?

How does the Carplay MMI Prime function in respect to iDrive? Is there a button to enable/disable it?

Also - do you see any risk towards warranty based on this? Would it be detected if we disable it before sending for service/warranty repairs?

Btw - much appreciate you putting this information out there. I've been waiting for 11 months after buying 330i Sport as Carplay is the only feature I missed from top models.

Here's what BHPian advaydh had to say about the matter:

Congratulations on the successful retrofit!

Please do share pictures of the display in the daytime, would really help get an idea of the display and the final look. Thanks!

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