07-07-2013, 10:41 AM | #1 |
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Snap-in Adapter vs. USB Connection
I expect to take delivery this week of a low mileage CPO 2011 X3 with, among other good toys, Nav(609), Smartphone Integration (6NF), and BMW Assist (6NL).
There are a ton of articles about connecting an iPhone but I never have been able to clearly determine what functional differences exist between using the snap in adapter or just using the USB port. I have an iPhone 5 and my wife has an iPhone 4s that will be upgraded to whatever succeeds the 5 when it becomes available. I saw some references to a "Y" cable that has both USB and audio connectors. Why is it necessary to use an Aux input connection if a USB connection is used since the USB connection carries the audio digitally? |
07-07-2013, 05:32 PM | #3 | |
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So, just to verify, a standard USB cable will give all the functionality the snap in cradle will. There will be no feature or function, including charging, that will not be available. Is this correct? I did read somewhere the cradle provides a connection to an external antenna located in the rear window. I have no clue how the antenna connects to the iPhone via the cradle so I am very skeptical this feature exists. |
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07-07-2013, 07:26 PM | #4 |
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If you have an iPhone 4S or earlier, and you have a 2011-2013 X3, then you can get video through the snap-in adapter. You cannot get video with an iPhone 5, a 2014 X3, or the white cable.
There is also a different music interface through the snap-in adapter, but I don't bother with it. I'm fine with the white cable interface, which gives me both music and album art, while charging my iPhone at the same time. |
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07-07-2013, 09:20 PM | #5 |
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Do you need the snap in adapter for BMW Apps?
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07-08-2013, 09:12 AM | #7 |
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The snap-in adapter is supposed to provide better network connection through the aerial in the car but frankly I haven't noticed any difference. I would use the money for other features instead if I had put a new car on order today. Music and phone functions are accesible through BT or the std white cable. Just my opinion after one year's ownership.
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07-08-2013, 09:59 AM | #8 | |
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Also depending on the snap in cradle that you purchase (I think there are 3 versions) will dictate what is supported .... I had a media cradle for my 5 Series which allowed me to play video from my iPhone 4s onto the screen, which I dont think you will get using the USB cable. AFAIK even if you use a snap in cradle the phone aspect still connects via bluetooth, again someone will correct me if thats incorrect MS
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