"For even simpler extension of on-board entertainment facilities in the new MINI, a USB connection including Bluetooth function is optionally available from August 2007 for the integration of external audio sources. This enables USB-compatible storage media and MP3 players such as the Apple iPod to be integrated in the MINI entertainment system via the USB port. Music selection can then be accessed via the audio system controls where the menu offers to choose between interpreter, album etc. Also mobiles can then be connected wirelessly via Bluetooth. "

What do you think this means? Does this mean that the USB port is like the currently available ipod adapter which is a dealer installable product?

Is this something that current 2007 minis will be able to have?

Let the speculation begin...

 

My speculation is that a whole new head unit would have to be installed to get this.

 

An honest, no nonsense answer from Robin!

 

loading up an usb thumb drive with mp3 files would be kind of cool. I have a new 16 GB drive that would hold a hole bunch.

 

I can't imagine that they would redesign the head unit after one year. It may very well be compatible. Of course there's the inevitable software update which will take 7 hours and cost $700

 

Speck37. That's just what I was thinking. Having a new head unit every year doesn't make any sense.

But again, it may not be worth the time and effort. I'm still trying to get the Voice Command button on my brand new 07 working. Getting the run-around from everyone.

A

 

How long have the mp3/ipods been around? Why couldn't Mini get some people to design stuf correctly in the first place?

New head in less than year? Of course...because they didn't listen the first time around.


Paul

 

Oh, c'mon. Apple has only redesigned the Ipod about seven times in two years, each with varying incompatabilities with the last one. To expect car mfgs to design something "correctly" to a fast-moving target like this is unreasonable.

Like any new technology, things have to settle down. While they're in flux, we're going to see a lot of glitches.

- Mark

 

How many second party stero heads have multiple integrations? Ipods, Memory stick etc? Min is really behind the power curve on this whole mess.


Don't make excuse when things are allready being done elesewhere.


Paul

 

And most of them have incompatabilities of one sort or another. In an event, the aftermarket is a completely different animal from an OEM radio installation.

Personally, I'd like to see the radio mfgs simply put a decent Aux input on the front panel of the radio as standard equipment and put the rest of their effort into producing a good-driving car. Leave it to the aftermarket if people want to chase the technology further. I have no desire for my car to be a consumer electronic device.

- Mark

 

That happened sometime ago. OBCII...

 

I seriously doubt any car maker actually makes their own radios. Its pretty common knowledge they are always behind the electronics curve, just look at the NAV units in the first gen cars. OEM electronics are always trailing edge ... not leading edge.

I would applaud MINI for taken such an aggresive stance.

 

Aux input as standard equipment is not unusual these days. MINI has aux input standard in the R56 and even added it to the 2007 cabrio as standard.

 

See the Ford sync package? look at their video...light years ahead of mini...in a focus.


Paul

 

True. So would you rather drive a Focus with a kick-@ss up to date stereo, or a MINI without? Would it be great to have both? Sure. Reality is that EVERYONE has to make trade-offs.

 

Unfortunately MINI made the trade off. I have to live with it. With the premium MINI charge they have no excuses.

MINI should be cutting edge, not trailing edge. I guess they blew their R&D money on advertising.

I for one will push MINI and not make excuses for them.


Paul