My understanding is that only video will not work, all else should be good.

 

I have an ipod 4 and a Samsung Galaxy S2. I use FoxFi for a hotspot on my Galaxy, which connects my ipod to WiFi. That way I can use Mini Connect on my ipod and that hooks right into the car like an iphone would. I went back and forth about whether or not to get an iphone for my new 2013 MINI Countryman and decided this route because I LOVE my Galaxy and am not a fan of the iphone. This setup works great for me!

 

I suppose I could go this route....but then I STILL have to buy an iPod!!!

I get free unlimited music with my Android music plan, one of the reasons I don't want to go to iPhone or iPod. I hate paying for music.

 

Have you tried using Connected with just your S2...I was reading info on MINI's site about the technology and it seems to say that a lot of it should be accessible from most smartphones. Just that an iPhone opens up access to all the features.

 

Mini Connect includes Bluetooth streaming. Any phone that can stream over Bluetooth can access it ... Not just iPhones.

Also, you can connect the USB cable to any phone, mp3 player or USB stick and it will find your music files and playlists. This also works for anyone who has the iPhone package but not Mini Connect.

This works great for me. It even pauses the music when I answer a call over Bluetooth and resumes when the call ends.

 

So you are saying that Bluetooth streaming will allow me to access my music from my android phone and have access thru the steering wheel controls or the joystick? If I can do this I may not have to get an iPhone after all. Not really concerned about the video others seem to be wanting access to.

 

I don't know since I don't have Mini Connect, but I wouldn't be surprised.

I can say that the USB port is fully integrated with the head unit. The steering controls and pause/resume with Bluetooth calling work perfectly.

 

The MINI supports A2DP streaming from any compatible device (regardless of OS) however, functionality is limited. I'm almost positive that the joystick and steering wheel controls will not allow you to do much more than jump to the previous or next track...

On the other hand, you should be able to connect your Android device to the USB port and navigate through your music by using the Devices menu item on the MINI Connected screen. You may need to also use a male to male audio cable for the audio output, but the MINI should be able to navigate and control music playback through the USB port.

What you absolutely will not get with your Android device is the functionality offered by the Connected piece of MINI Connected. These are the items tied to the MINI Connected app. Honestly they are more flash than utility...

 

Yes, connecting your android to the USB port will allow the head unit to find, index and play back any music and playlists you've downloaded.

 

Thanks for the info....may just stick to my Android then!!!

Can you still access Pandora thru stereo controls, steering wheel or joystick?

 

Yes

 

Ahhh...I'm liking this more and more!!

Looks like I don't have to switch to iPhone!!!

 

MINI Connected is a lot about running the iPhone apps on the screen and controlling them from the joystick. I run Pandora, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio and MOG (inlcuding MOG radio) right on the MINI connected screen with joystick control. No need to play with the phone. It also includes a bunch of MINI Connected apps like online search, vehicle performance, etc, on the screen. I believe the functionality is only via iPhone.

 

I am doing the same thing with an old iphone 4 i had and never sold. I am using my Galxy NOte as a hotspot which the iphone uses.

I am also using Bluetooth streaming from my Galaxy device so I can use spotify and answer calls.

 

Just an FYI.. I have mini connected and an Ipod touch that lives in my car. I found a bmw snap in adapter part 84212162534. It works, and I have full integration with playlists and such. Available on ECS Tuning. Video does not work though.