BWW Apple CarPlay: Everything You Need to Know

Preinstalled in newer BMW models, Apple CarPlay integrates with the vehicle’s onboard system and is accessible via the controls, usually a touch screen you find front and centre in the dash where you can view all the apps. As of 2021, it was all possible with the BMW ConnectedDrive system. 

As of 2024, Apple CarPlay for BMW in-car experience seamlessly integrates with the vehicle’s onboard system via BMW’s Operating System 9. The system ensures that Apple’s voice assistant Siri can be used more efficiently, enhancing the interaction between your iPhone and your BMW. Please read our What is Apple CarPlay article to get the whole story.

BMW Models Compatible with Apple CarPlay

Nearly all BMW models, including the latest i5 xDrive40 and the upcoming 2025 BMW 550e xDrive PHEV, are equipped with Apple CarPlay. And the German automaker is doubling down with integration of advanced features like the Highway Assistant and the extended smartphone integration.

Do BMW Owners Need to Pay for Apple CarPlay?

No, Apple CarPlay is now a free service for bimmer owners — as it should be, considering it’s a no-cost service with other automakers. 

Historical pricing strategy: $300 charge to $80 subscription to free (finally)

When it first arrived for BMW in 2016, there was a whopping $300 one-time CarPlay charge for buyers who wanted it (good for 20 years). Considering this app-based setup integrating with the owners’ phones, paying out of pocket seems like an easy cash grab. But when those pricey $2,500 navigation system upgrades disappeared, we can see why they started charging for this stand-alone option. 

Also, considering CarPlay was free in 2016 for other automakers, including Chevrolet, paying $300 was a stretch. In fairness to BMW, however, they were amoung the first to introduce wireless CarPlay, whereas other brands still required a USB cable plugged in.

Then, they went from the one-time charge to a $80 subscription service for Apple CarPlay alongside their ConnectedDrive service, which BMW ultimately dropped heading into 2020. So, the whole thing is no charge now. As The Verge states, it appears that BMW has seen the error of its ways.

BMW continues to offer Apple CarPlay as a complimentary service for its owners, reinforcing its position that essential connectivity services should be accessible without additional fees. Frankly, this approach aligns with the broader industry trend towards enhancing the value proposition for customers through inclusive technology offerings.

2024 and Beyond: Apple CarPlay and BMW’s Digital Services Expansion

In 2024, BMW continues to expand its digital offerings, as are all automakers, including enhanced smartphone integration with BMW Operating System 9. This update allows for direct activation of Siri, streamlining the use of Apple’s voice assistant while driving. BMW also introduced the Highway Assistant with Active Lane Change using eye activation, available in models like the iX, 5 Series, and X7.

The latest from Apple: Next-generation CarPlay

Apple announced its next-generation CarPlay, fully integrating with a vehicle’s digital displays. This update extends beyond infotainment to control and display all facets of the vehicle’s system, including speed, fuel level, and temperature, directly through CarPlay.

The new system promises a more unified and personalized driving experience, with customizable gauge cluster designs and at-a-glance information from widgets like Weather and Music on the car’s dashboard​​.

BMW Models Compatible with Apple CarPlay

Nearly all BMW models, including the latest i5 xDrive40 and the upcoming 2025 BMW 550e xDrive PHEV, are equipped with Apple CarPlay. And the German automaker is doubling down with integration of advanced features like the Highway Assistant and the extended smartphone integration.

Retrofitting AppleCarPlay in Older BMWs — Is It Possible?

Sure, a 2016 BMW certainly isn’t an old car, but in the tech world, it’s a dinosaur. Nevertheless, yes, you can retrofit aftermarket head units for the full CarPlay experience in older bimmers and access all those iPhone apps — from music library and contacts to maps and navigation. We won’t go into the whole process of retrofitting pre-2017 BMWs with units, but you can read more about it at bimmer-tech.net here.

Takeaway

While BMW was an early adopter of using Apple CarPlay wirelessly, the German automaker charged for the service; from that $300 one-time fee to an annual $80 charge, now, it’s free. And for all those older bimmers, retrofitting a CarPlay compatible head unit is within reach with a bit of heavy lifting and extra costs incurred, of course.