Ah, the joys of driving a BMW – the perfect weight distribution, the responsive handling, and unparalleled smartphone integration capabilities thanks to BMW Apple CarPlay. But did you know that you don’t have to miss out on the latter in your beloved E90 or F30 BMW 3 Series? Join us as we explore how you can easily bring your aging Bavarian beauty into the smartphone era!
The Best BMW CarPlay Features
Before explaining how to get the feature in your car, let’s talk about what makes BMW CarPlay worth it in the first place. Apple CarPlay transforms the iDrive screen into an extension of your iPhone, offering a world of modern conveniences.
First of all, you get access to navigation apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze. This can save you from your built-in nav system trying to route you through an abandoned warehouse district.
Second, the musical experience gets a serious buff too. You can stream from Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and other audio apps directly through your BMW’s infotainment screen. Because life’s too short for CD changers and those scratched mixes from 2009. Additionally, communication becomes safer and more intuitive with messaging and calls handled through voice commands, which keeps your hands on the steering wheel.
Last but not least, newer Apple CarPlay systems and retrofits offer wireless connection. This way you can leave your phone in your pocket, keeping your interior free from cable clutter. What truly sets BMW’s CarPlay apart is its integration with the iDrive controller, allowing you to navigate the interface using the familiar rotary dial.
What Year Did BMW Get Apple CarPlay?
If you’re wondering whether your BMW should have come with CarPlay from the factory, here’s a short historical recap. BMW first introduced Apple CarPlay in their cars in 2016 as an optional extra on select models with the NBT Evo iDrive system (also known as iDrive 5.0 or later).
Initially, BMW charged a subscription fee for CarPlay access – approximately $80 per year after the first year. However, after considerable backlash, BMW abandoned this subscription model in December 2019. Since then, CarPlay has been available as a one-time purchase option or included as standard equipment on new models.
Here’s the quick breakdown by BMW generation:
- F-series models (2016–2018) – optional CarPlay available on some models with NBT Evo.
- G-series models (2019–present) – CarPlay more widely available, eventually becoming standard.
- Pre-2016 Emodels – no factory CarPlay option available.
If your BMW rolled off the production line before 2016 or if it has an older iDrive system, you’re in the “retrofit required” camp. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered as well.
BMW CarPlay Retrofit for 2016 and Earlier Cars
So, your BMW predates the CarPlay era? You’ve still got options that don’t involve trading in your beloved Bimmer for something newer. Read on to check out what are your three main routes.
Option 1 – Factory CarPlay Activation
If your 2016 and up BMW has the NBT Evo head unit with ID5/ID6 software, you might just need a simple software BMW CarPlay Activation coding (and, optionally, a Wi-Fi antenna). This is the most cost-effective solution, but only available for a small portion of recent BMWs with the newest tech.
Option 2 – CarPlay MMI Prime Retrofit
The most popular option for pre-2016 BMW owners is the CarPlay MMI Prime retrofit. This plug-and-play solution works with over 95% of BMWs produced since 2008, meaning it’s compatible with most E-series, F-series, and early G-series vehicles.
It integrates with the existing iDrive system, offers wireless connectivity, works with virtually all iDrive systems (CIC, ENTRY, NBT, etc.), and requires no coding. Installation is straightforward for newer systems, though older CIC systems require more advanced DIY skills. Note though that it doesn’t support touchscreen control, relying on the intuitive iDrive controller instead.
Option 3 – Complete Head Unit Upgrade
For the full factory experience, you can upgrade your entire head unit to the NBT EVO with ID5/ID6 software. This comprehensive but expensive option replaces the head unit itself, sometimes along with the screen, iDrive controller, and a couple of other components.
The main benefit?
A completely modernized BMW experience with HD screens, improved processing, and native CarPlay. The downside? Cost: potentially thousands of dollars, rather than hundreds. If you want to get more precise info about the possibilities, check out this guide on How to Retrofit BMW Apple CarPlay into a 2016 or Older Car.
Summary
If you plan to keep your BMW for at least a few more years, a CarPlay retrofit is absolutely worth the investment. Not only does it modernize your driving experience, but it can also add to your car’s resale value, especially for models where potential buyers would expect this technology.
This is why it’s worth bringing your beloved BMW into the modern era. Your driving experience (and your passengers) will thank you for it. After all, the ultimate driving machine deserves the ultimate smartphone integration – whether it rolled off the assembly line last year or last decade.