BMW has announced a new iPod interface for the newest generation of BMW models. The carmaker said that the new “BMW Interface for iPod” will be available for every current BMW model, including 3 Series Sedans and Sports Wagons, the new M5 Sedan and M6 Coupe, as well as the 5, 6, and 7 Series. Compatible with all dock connector iPods, the direct-connect unit lets BMW owners incorporate their iPods directly into their car’s sound system, allowing them to control playback and volume, shuffle songs, and sort music by playlists, artist, album, genre or podcast.
“The seamless integration of iPod makes it effortless for drivers to control their music through their existing audio system and the multifunction steering wheel,” explains BMW. “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 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 at BMW centers beginning in July 2006. The company said pricing has not yet been determined, but that installation will be performed by authorized BMW centers only. The original BMW iPod Adapter will continue to be available for 2002 and later BMW models, including the X3, X5, Z4, and previous generation 3 Series.