So when I was at my local dealer, they told me I had to get the USB/AUX Input kit for my ipod to work, and I would be able to control it from the screen.

I'm also hearing about a kit (very expensive) with the actual Apple connector in the glovebox.

What is the difference between the two options, and with the USB one is there anything I cannot do? I have alot of AAC protected purchased content.

 

The USB interface will play AAC files, just not protected ones.

 

I think my mini will have the USB one (is that the only one avail from mini in the "package"?).

Not sure what you mean by protected ones, I don't download content from iTunes and just used the default settings for the iPod when I uploaded my songs from my cd collection. Will it still work or will I have to re-load everything into my computer with different settings?

 

Here are some threads you should check out... A lot of good information about all of this, and what works and doesn't work before you make your decision on spending money to get the kits, etc.:


https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...d.php?t=135644
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...d.php?t=128483

 

iPod Integration puts the iPod in the secret compartment above the glovebox. It is charged and can be controlled by the NAV screen.

The Bluetooth/USB option, with the proper cable, allows you to plug into both the USB connection (for controlling it on the NAV screen) and the AUX port for the audio input. The disadvantage is that you have cables showing, and you have to find a place to put the iPod. So, when parked, your iPod is in view.

If you are already getting the Bluetooth option, the USB/AUX is a low cost option (price of the special cable). If you are not getting Bluetooth, I would go for the iPod Integration.

 

"Protected" AAC files are ones purchased from the iTunes store, like the original poster has.

If you've just used the iTunes defaults while ripping your CD collection, then your songs are probably AAC files, but they're not protected, so the MINI should have no problems playing them.

 

There was talk in the other threads on how the glove-box connection attaches to the radio's CD changer input, giving you less memory for scanning playlists and such, so you may want to be careful and read the threads.

The entire subject is a mess, however. Some people report painfully slow menu navigation regardless of the connection, others report delay with the glove box connection, others report differences with nav / non-nav, others report no memory of where you left off when you restart the car, and others report results that contradict all of this.

Despite my review of the threads I'm afraid to say that my only conclusion is that the performance is completely random based upon some combination of year/model/star charts. I just hope I do well when I order my Clubman in the next month or so....

 

I agree kbleicher.

I'm determined to get to the bottom of what the USB port is capable of on its own, with various storage media. I'm very surprised by the diversity of user experience on this stuff - it hard to believe all these cars came from the same plant and are from the same year.
Anyways... I've started a thread about USB hard drives and usb keys so we can all share this information, and in doing so we'll have a USB guide of sorts. Mini need to address this, by not only telling us what capabilities we have, but how best to use them. The manual seems timid to me, when it comes to USB. Very little spec on anything digital - do they not want to be held accountable for USB or powering problems?
I'll get to the bottom of it. I just wish there was documentation, to save me from this trial and error!

 

Did anyone here have to buy their Y adapter? I am being asked $105 to add it to my 2008 MCS, when I ordered every package except for NAV.
Just want to see if anyone else had to pay for the adapter, because I'm hearing that it should have been included free of charge.

 

Go to this thread https://www.northamericanmotoring.com...d.php?t=135178.
Someone did a neat trick to extend his usb to the armrest for his iphone, you could do the same with an ipod. It is the ultimate stealth install.