Consider this a wish (or moreso a hope that it already exists), but I'd love to see some kind of touchscreen replacement to MINI Connected. I'm a fan of MINI Connected over the standard stereo (I've had both, and prefer the later), but still it's just wrong to have the screen and not be able to touch it.

Wondering if anyone has attempted a car-computer utilizing either the MINI Connected screen, or just the available bezel.

 

Agreed. It's 2012 already, and the interface is a toggle switch ? I chose not to order connected/nav because it seemed overpriced for the technology used. Bummer....

 

I know Audi and BMW don't, pretty sure MB as well. I had after market touch screen HU in three of my previuos cars and they all became buggy over time (although I do prefer the UI) not sure they really hold up well enough. It took a little getting use to, but I'm very comfortable with the joystick now.

 

I agree, toggle a bit out dated... but better than most touch screens. The Infinity had a touch screen availability... but always found myself using the main control. Really need a large screen or very small fingers to be able to touch the options without double touching. The 2012 Audi A6 offers a Touch Pad on the console, interested to see it's outcome.

 

VW does, Audi doesn't? I didn't know that. I've used touchscreen navis before and it's one of the few places where I prefer physical controls. Touchscreen may be nice for the passenger or if you're stopped but you can't beat muscle memory and feeling around while you're driving.

 

I may be in the minority but I prefer the physical controls over a touchscreen primarily because the inevitable finger smudges on touchscreens drives me batty. I suppose it wouldn't be long before the aftermarket had readily available protective covers similar to smartphones for sale, but even these seem to collect prints with time. Have you ever had someone put their finger all over your computer monitor when explaining something on the screen? I also find myself constantly wiping down the screen on my iPhone. I find many debit card keypads in retail stores to be downright gross. Must be the OCD in me.

I agree that the interface technology in the MINI controls seems to be a bit lacking. That said, there are some aspects of it that I really like. I love being able to zoom the Nav display on the fly without having to take your eyes off the road. Same with the right-hand button that allows you to cycle through the different function screens.

Keep your grimy fingers off my displays people!