ON INTEGRATION OF iPHONE WITH BMW CARS

EYES ON THE ROAD

AppleInsider reports that BMW may have scored a bit of a coup with Apple's new iPhone.  Specifically,

"According to a blurb published by AutoSpies this week, the German auto maker will be the first to announce multi-level connectivity with the Apple device in an upcoming version of its high-end 7-Series sedan.
The otherwise unenlightening report offers readers no additional detail aside from mentioning that the rumored integration will go beyond "just Bluetooth..."
...BMW was the first major auto maker to team with Apple on seamless integration between iPods and a car audio systems back in 2004, when it unveiled a car battery-powered iPod hookup that tucked the players safely in the glove compartment.
The solution, which was revealed exclusively by AppleInsider, introduced a way for drivers to enjoy high fidelity sound through their car's stereo system while controlling their iPod using buttons on the BMW steering wheel."

As a long time fan of BMW's flagship 7-series, this is obviously of interest to this observer.  However, at a time when most new cars can integrate almost any new phone/PDA via Bluetooth, it's not entirely clear what integration BMW and Apple may be planning, that takes them beyond "Just Bluetooth".

This is pure speculation on my part, but BMW is rumored to be incorporating an updated version of a Heads-Up Display (aka HUD), in the new 7-series either this year or next. 

This feature is something various auto makers like BMW, Cadillac and others have been deploying in the last couple of years, with the notion being to provide more information to the driver without him/her taking eyes off the road. 

The technology was originally developed for fighter pilots, who were the primary beneficiaries of these HUD systems over the last few decades.  It's already available from BMW in certain 5 and 6-series models.

One can imagine being able to navigate through one's contacts in the iPhone, along with the unique "Visual Voicemail system" via the Heads up display, using voice recognition.

Curious if others can think up additional ways an iPhone could be integrated with a car "beyond Bluetooth".

Comments

[laling]

Hi,I think this Heads-Up Display (aka HUD) will disturb driver view to enjoyed the scenery as well...For pilot jet fighter ya! agree that for tracking and as compulsory add on tool.Anyway It's depend to what driver need..