Imagine cruising down the open road in your stylish BMW 1 Series, seamlessly connected to your smartphone’s apps and features. Picture effortlessly accessing maps, music playlists, and messages with a voice command or a tap on the screen.
In today’s tech-savvy world, having Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility has become an essential feature for many car owners. But does the BMW 1 Series live up to this expectation?
Join us as we delve into the BMW 1 series Apple carplay or Android auto connectivity to uncover whether BMW’s luxury hatchback can keep you connected on the go.
Overview: BMW 1 Series Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
With the modern obsession with smartphones and technology, it’s no wonder that car manufacturers are now integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into their vehicles. BMW is one such brand that has embraced this trend, offering these connectivity features on its popular 1 Series model. But what exactly do these platforms bring to the table?
For Apple users, CarPlay allows seamless integration of their iPhone with the BMW 1 Series. With a simple plug-and-play setup, drivers can access their favorite apps like Apple Maps, Spotify, and Messages directly through the car’s infotainment system. The intuitive interface provides a familiar user experience while ensuring minimal distractions on the road.
Android Auto users need to feel included. BMW’s implementation of this platform means that Android fans can connect their devices effortlessly to the 1 Series. With Google Assistant at your beck and call, accessing music, making calls, or sending messages becomes effortless—leaving you free to concentrate on enjoying your drive.
In the list below, you will find a detailed overview of recent BMW 1 Series years and whether or not they’re equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto:
- The 2012-2016 BMW 1 Series does not have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
- The 2017-2019 BMW 1 Series offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as optional.
- The 2020-2023 BMW 1 Series has standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
BMW 1 Series: How to set up Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
Suppose you need to familiarize yourself with configuring Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on your BMW 1 Series. In that case, we have prepared two straightforward, detailed guides for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto!
How to set up Apple CarPlay on the BMW 1 Series
To set up Apple CarPlay on the BMW 1 Series, you must first ensure WiFi and Bluetooth are activated on your iPhone. Head over to your iPhone’s Settings, toggle Bluetooth, and connect it to your car’s system.
Navigate to the WiFi settings and select your car’s network to establish a connection. Once you’ve sorted out connectivity, enable Siri’s time. Reopen the Settings app on your iPhone and select Siri & Search.
Turn on the Listen for Hey Siri and Press the Side Button for Siri options if you want hands-free access while driving. Ensure that both ‘Bluetooth Incoming Calls’ and ‘WiFi Calls’ are enabled in the same menu.
With everything set up correctly, you can now turn on the engine of your BMW 1 Series. Ensure that the vehicle is in Park mode before proceeding further.
Now head over to COM in your car’s infotainment display and look for Mobile Devices or Phone Integration options (exact terminology may vary depending on model).
Navigate through these menus until you find New Device or Connect Device options, then choose Phone Calls and Audio under Telephony Services. On the screen of your BMW 1 Series, confirm the pairing request and matching PIN.
Go through the following menus on your iPhone Pair Allow Use CarPlay. On the BMW iDrive screen, select the option to connect to Apple CarPlay.
Set Up Standard Apple CarPlay
In case your BMW 1 Series lacks Wireless CarPlay compatibility or if you have a preference for Standard Apple CarPlay, here are the steps to configure it:
- Pick up your iPhone and turn on WiFi, Bluetooth, and Siri.
- Use a good-quality USB to Lightning cable, and plug your iPhone into the BMW’s USB slot in the center console.
- On the infotainment screen, select Apple CarPlay -> Yes, agree.
- On your iPhone, choose Allow.
How to set up Android Auto on the BMW 1 Series
Setting up Android Auto on the BMW 1 Series is a breeze, especially when you have the right tools.
The first step is to turn on WiFi and Bluetooth on your phone and ensure they are connected. This will provide a seamless connection between your phone and the car’s infotainment system.
Grab a good-quality USB data cable compatible with your phone and plug it into the BMW’s USB slot in the center console. Once connected, go to the infotainment screen and select Android Auto from the list of available apps.
Now comes an important part – agreeing to Android Auto’s terms and conditions. Make sure you carefully read through them before proceeding.
Grab your phone again and grant all required permissions for Android Auto. This will allow it to access various functions of your phone, like calls, messages, music apps, navigation, etc.
You can easily set up Android Auto on your BMW 1 Series. It may seem like many steps initially, but once everything is set up correctly, you’ll enjoy a seamless integration between your phone and the car’s infotainment system. Experience all that Android Auto offers while driving safely in style!
What to do if Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are not working?
If you find yourself in a situation where Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are not working, don’t panic. You can take several troubleshooting steps to get them up and running again.
Fix Apple CarPlay not working on the BMW 1 Series
Make sure your BMW 1 Series supports Apple CarPlay: If your car was not equipped with the optional extra at the time of production, even having a model from 2017 or later may not enable Apple CarPlay.
Check the iOS software version: Ensure your iPhone operates on iOS 13 or a more recent version. You can verify and upgrade your iOS by navigating to Settings, selecting General, and then choosing Software Update on your iPhone.
Try using a different cable: The cable you’re currently using might be low quality or damaged.
Ensure you’ve enabled Siri: To activate Siri, navigate to Settings and select Siri & Search. Enable the options for Hey Siri, Press the Side Button for Siri, and Allow Siri When Locked.
Try a different USB port: Ensure you have connected the cable to an incorrect USB slot on your BMW 1 Series timing chain. Look for a USB port displaying either a CarPlay or iOS icon.
Restart your iPhone: Restarting your iPhone will reset it and can fix the issue.
Fix Android Auto not working on the BMW 1 Series
Make sure your BMW 1 Series supports Android Auto- If your car was not equipped with the optional extra at the time of production, even having a model from 2017 or later may not enable Apple CarPlay.
Update your software version- Make sure your phone runs Android 8.0 or a newer version to use Android Auto.
Try a different cable- The cable you currently use might need higher quality or better.
Try a different USB port- You may have plugged the cable into the wrong USB slot on your BMW 1 Series.
Restart your phone- To resolve the problem, you can reset it by restarting it. Another option is to clear the cache on your phone through Settings – Apps – Android Auto – Storage.
3 Benefits of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on the BMW 1 Series
One of the significant benefits of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on the BMW 1 Series is the ability to navigate using Google Maps. Gone are the days of fumbling with your phone while trying to find your way around.
With these integration systems, you can connect your smartphone to your car’s infotainment system and access the latest GPS technology from your dashboard. This ensures safer navigation and provides a seamless and user-friendly experience.
Another critical advantage is listening to music using Spotify through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Whether on a long road trip or running errands around town, accessing all your favorite songs, playlists, and podcasts can make any journey more enjoyable.
You no longer need to rely on CDs or deal with complicated Bluetooth pairing processes; everything is easily accessible through your smartphone and seamlessly integrated into your BMW’s audio system.
One of the most convenient features is using Siri or other voice assistants directly through your car’s interface, from making phone calls and responding to text messages without taking your hands off the wheel to setting reminders. Even controlling compatible smart home devices, having a voice-activated assistant always at hand makes driving safer and more efficient.
Incorporating Apple CarPlay or Android Auto into the BMW 1 Series brings numerous advantages that enhance convenience, safety, and enjoyment while on the road. The possibilities are endless with these integration systems as they continue to evolve and provide innovative features for
Conclusion
The BMW 1 series Apple carplay or Android Auto is standard. There is an option to upgrade to a higher trim level that includes these features.
Some may find it disappointing that these popular smartphone integration systems are not included in the base model. It must be noted that BMW offers its infotainment system, providing a seamless and user-friendly experience.
FAQ’s
What kind of features does Apple CarPlay bring to my BMW 1 Series?
With Apple CarPlay, you can make calls, send and receive messages, listen to music or podcasts, and even navigate using apps like Google Maps and Waze from your car’s display.
Can I use Siri or Google Assistant with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in my BMW 1 series?
You can use voice commands via Siri or Google Assistant to operate your device hands-free while driving.
Do I need any special equipment to use Apple Carplay or Android Auto in my BMW 1 Series?
You only need a compatible iPhone for Apple CarPlay, an Android phone for Android Auto, and a USB cable.