I have this new gen of iDrive with the touch-sensitive controller in my car, but I rarely do destination input inside the car anymore. When I do, I typically use the voice control since you can simply speak the entire address in one breath and do it on the move. For me, the system correctly interprets the address 80-90% of the time. Most of the time I will have obtained the address I need well before getting to the car, so I use the Send to Car app on my Android mobile via Google Maps. Then the address is already loaded in the nav system when I get to the car.
Seems like a nice option but, as bimmerjay noted, there are simply better tools for controlling nav and infotainment functions. I wish automakers would just recognize that the worst smartphone apps and websites are simply easier to use than even the best car-based interfaces. The winner will the automaker who recognizes this and fully integrates the capability of the smartphone in a safe, comprehensive and simple way.
I'm with bimmerjay, I have a '14 X1 with the latest iDrive and I love the myBMW app on my iPhone. I really dig sitting in my office and typing the address into my phone and sending it to my car -- once in the car, it's already there and I simply press "start guidance" and I'm good to go. I'm also a fan of the ConnectedDrive/Office/BMW apps capability -- having Stitcher available at the touch of a button is wonderful during long drives!
@bankerdanny - I don't think so. Touchscreens are great for smartphones and the like, but they remain an absolutely terrible interface in a moving vehicle. You have to focus your attention on the screen and where you're poking your finger. There's no t
Comments