I have Premium, sport, cold weather, and convenience package with bluetooth/USB connector. I'm planning to buy bluetooth phone (currently I have AT&T very simple prepaid phone) but wondering if I need special phone adapter if I want to keep my phone in arm-rest console.
Where can I optain adapter information? If I don't need adapter, can I plug my phone in arm-rest console? Which phone doesn't need special adapter?
I really appreciate your help.

 

Well, the adapters in the armrests are for the old phones without a bluetooth connection. So I think it ging to be hard to find one for your phone, specially when you will be using the wireless bluetooth connection.

 

That's not true. I have a Motorola Razr phone with bluetooth and have an armrest adapter for it.

The number of adapters is limited, however. Only certain phones are supported and you generally have to order the part as a BMW part.

If you go through my previous posts, you can find several threads which contain a link for a business that offers the inserts and the proper BMW part number. I ordered mine from Classic Mini in Ohio, which offers a discount for NAM members.

 

I don't know what part of my answer is not true, since I only stated that it may be hard to find the right one for his model. I personally, since use t he bluetooth connection and not a physical one, I keep my phone in my pocket at all times. I think it is just a matter of preferences.

 

You said the adapters were for old phones without bluetooth capability. That's what I said was not true.

 

Well, maybe it was a misunderstanding. I meant that originally, those connectors were meant for the use of phones (that at the time did not have bluetooth capabilities). Since today most of them have, I don't see a reason to connect it physically.

 

Yes, I see what you meant. The only real advantage of these inserts is that they charge your phone back up, without the need to have a plug-in for the cigarette lighter.

They claim that because of the car's internal antenna, you should get a stronger signal when connected to the insert, but I haven't found a noticeable difference. Like you, I keep my phone in my pocket most of the time. I will plug it in on longer trips, though, to charge up the battery.

I'm still glad I bought it. Others will have to measure whether the benefits justify the cost.

 

Good point, never thought about the battery!

 

Check over in the Audio/Nav sub forum if you have more questions, there has been a lot of discussion on which phones work and how/where to get the inserts.

 

It is nice not to have to carry around a car charger. Like Sowellman, I haven't really noticed a difference in call quality with the added use of the built in antenna but I'm happy I got the insert for Motorola Razor V3M. I was using a LG phone when I first got my MINI and switched to the Razor in order to get a insert for the armrest.

 

Current list of Mini - BMW phones supported through the arm rest adapters. http://www.wireless4mini.com/phones.html

 

Are you sure that's the list of phones for which adapters are available for? The phones there seem to be ones that Mini certifies will work with the car's bluetooth system. It doesn't say anything about cradles.

Here's a link for BMW cradles, which will also fit the R56 Mini:
http://www.wireless4bmw.com/cradles.html

 

Yes - my bad sent the wrong link. Try this one also. http://bimmernav.com/snapins.html

 

Good luck getting the"phone cradle for your armrest. I have been in contact with MiniUSA, and all I get is a run around. The convenience pkg states you can charge your phone and use the cars antenna system by plugging your phone into console. What they don't state is that the phone cradle doesn't exist as part of the option. RIP-OFF. $500 of the convience pkg is for the comfort bluetooth option that can't be used. The dealership was worthless, they didn't even know what I was talking about, when I asked them about the "cradle. Hope you have better luck.

 

Last year, we were led to believe that the insert would be part of the package. It wasn't.

Many dealers have been confused about the inserts because, apparently, Mini hasn't provided them with any information. I was able to order an insert after figuring out the BMW part number for the proper insert for my V3 Razr. It works fine.

Just because you don't have an insert doesn't mean you can't use the bluetooth system. It works fine, with or without the insert. The insert allows you to charge your phone and is supposed to connect to an internal antenna, giving you better reception. Again, though, you don't need the insert to use the hands-free bluetooth system.

 

I agree, the bluetooth portion of the option works great. My point is I could have purchased that option at a lot less cost, had I wanted JUST bluetooth capabilities. My bone of contention is the false advertising associated with the Convenience package and the Comfort Bluetooth/iPod option. It specifically states that with this option you can charge the phone, and use the cars antenna to boost signal. It doesn't state anywhere that it will cost you an additional $100+ for the cradle. This is deceptive marketing/advertising and potential Mini buyers should be made aware of the rip-off.