BMW taps into iOS4 iPod updates

Apple has introduced iPod Out facility with the recent iOS4 operating system upgrade for the iPod Touch and iPhone. The iPod Out function is a way for device manufacturers to utilise the familiar iPod interface in their own hardware, when an iPod Touch or iPhone is connected. It comes bundled with other, big-noted features -- such as multitasking, quick app switching and folders.

BMW has been quick to realise the convenience this brings for an in-car entertainment system and the introduction to support iPod Out in both BMW and MINI group vehicles will bring a familiarity of use for many drivers.

According to BMW: "The on-board monitor in BMW and MINI provides users with the simplicity and familiarity they have come to trust in their iPhone and iPod touch and the intuitive and integrated iPod navigation menu can be safely operated through the vehicle's interface controls.

"Additionally, state-of-the-art iPod features such as custom playlists and Genius, which instantly creates a playlist of songs that go well together from a user's own library, is immediately made available to BMW and MINI drivers through the vehicle's main display. iPod Out requires iOS 4 with iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and iPod touch (second and third generation)."

Apart from familiarity of interface, this system brings a level of safety by removing the need to fumble about with the MP3 player at inappropriate driving moments.

There is also the benefit of instant feature updates when Apple releases future interface tweaks to the iPod Touch or iPhone software.

The new interface technology was developed through the international cooperation of the BMW Research and Development Centre in Munich, Germany and the BMW Group Technology Office at Palo Alto in Silicon Valley, California. 

At the time of writing there is no word on when the new system will be rolled out to the vehicle production line.

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