I just looked at this option on my 2017 Cooper with visual boost. There's really nothing there, just some phone numbers. Can I upload apps here, or is it basically worthless?
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You got that right.

 

You can get roadside assistance, call MINI customer service, download some apps, and wreck your MINI by being a distracted driver while messing with MINI Connected!

MINI Motorer's app gives details.

 

There is a crude map on Connected Classic app if you have iPhone
There is a time to destination app if you Have Connected current app
If you have Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, and a few others, when you are connected to usb you can control those app from Mini Connected screen, the app icons will show up when you are in one of those apps on your phone.

Instead of launching normally, the Mini Logo appears on the app and then the app appears on the screen. (Some apps have limited functionality)

I've only tested with iPhone, but if you have search the apple store for Mini Connected.

 

I use it for Pandora and Amazon Music.

 

Get the Mini Connected app for your phone and plug it into the USB port under the center stack. If possible, get the older version of the app, which has functions like measuring g-forces and such. The new one has a slightly better calendar function but that's it.


EDIT:
Here's the App Store link:Classic Mini Connected – iPhone

And here's the Android/Google Play Store link:
Classic Mini Connected – Android

Get this one^

Not this one^

 

^^^ yep ^^^

 

The new one is much more useful if you have one of the new touchscreen nav units.