Sections: MINI Connected Aug 24th, 2012 16 Comments 
A new update to MINI Connected is available for download through iTunes. Existing users should see the update as available on their iPhones as well. Enhancements include updates to Foursquare functionality, access to your iPhone calendar and new features in the MINIMALISM Analyser. Full update description after the jump.
Sections: MINI Connected, Official News, Technology Aug 6th, 2012 3 Comments 
Beginning today, owners of BMW models equipped with the Apps option and MINI models equipped with MINI Connected can enjoy a fully integrated Stitcher SmartRadio™ app experience in their vehicle. Stitcher SmartRadio is the mobile leader in on?demand news, entertainment, sports and talk radio, delivering over 10,000 radio shows and live stations to customers around the globe. continued →
Sections: MINI Connected, Technology Jul 10th, 2012 6 Comments 
It’s been two years since MINI and BMW released the first automotive app-based integration of the iPhone. The system allows apps on the iPhone to be fully integrated into the car’s display complete with automotive-grade usability and functionality. Today BMW is opening up that platform and allowing third-party developers to introduce their own applications. And based on the systems being identical, we expect MINI to do the same.
Apps extend the range of in-car services using the smartphone, making it possible to use features such as web radio, GoogleTM Local Search or Facebook safely and easily in the vehicle. But that’s just the start, as the application-based concept is designed to allow the use of “external” apps, paving the way for third-party services to be integrated into BMW and MINI models. With these third-party apps, the range of functions can basically be expanded at will: updating the app or installing another compatible app simply adds new functions, without having to make any modifications to the vehicle itself. continued →
Sections: Technology Jun 12th, 2012 7 Comments 
Yesterday Apple Introduced an API built into the new iOS6 that allows Siri to be mapped directly to a hardware button (like the voice command button) on a handful of automaker’s cars. Notable on that list for MINI fans was BMW. And it’s not surprising knowing that both MINI and BMW have worked hand in hand with Apple since the very first iPod integration in 2003. So what does this all mean for MINI and Siri? BMW will be getting the integration but there was no confirmation about MINI. In an effort close the loop we reached out to MINI USA to get their official response about Eyes Free and if we’ll see it in future MINIs. Check it out after the break.
Sections: Technology Jun 11th, 2012 32 Comments 
We learned today at Apple’s Worldwide Developer’s conference that the company is working with BMW and a handful of other manufacturers to integrate Siri into select voice control systems. The idea simply integrates the technology into a vehicle’s voice command button on your steering wheel. Not just passing Siri through Bluetooth but actually defining a button that directly connects to the App via an API. After pressing the button you’ll be able to ask Siri questions without taking your eyes off the road. What about MINI? Typically BMW and MINI work from the same technology resources and platforms so it wouldn’t be surprising to see this technology come to the MINI as well. continued →
Sections: In the Press, MINI Connected, Official News, Technology, Video Mar 12th, 2012 5 Comments 
Today at South by Southwest Interactive in Austin, Texas BMW Group announced that the Stitcher Smart Radio iPhone App will be the next compatible app for iDrive/MINI Connected. Video of the prototype app in a BMW 650i and press release after the jump.
Sections: Technology Mar 1st, 2012 90 Comments 
We’re big fans of MINI Connected. The system is just getting started though. A handful of third-party apps have made their way into the system, but frankly, there should be more. So here’s the question: what would you like to see in MINI Connected? Obviously, there’s Android support, but what kind of apps would you like to see? What features would you existing users love to see? What features would put you nay-sayers over the edge to pony up the dollars for the system? Sound off in the comments.
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