hi guys
I have 2016 BMW Z4 E89 28i.
i am trying to get some sort of support for Apple car play. BMW told me that apple car play retrofit is not available for Z4 models.
i've came across very different but 4 options.
First two options are wireless transmission of the phone screen hence no need to add 2nd display on the car.
1. Bimmertech smartview - $614 USD
https://www.bimmer-tech.net/shop/bmw...tech-smartview
Pros : credible company and people actually have had these units
cons : what if new iOS update gets released and i am at a mercy of Bimmertech to release the firmware upgrade
2. Unichip carplay smartbox (chinese company) - $458
Pros : looks great and it seems to be working.
Cons :it seems that there might be an issue when it comes to future support
Extra display screen options (Single DIN)
3. Pioneer AVH-3300NEX (wired car play) - $429 USD
Pros : screen is folded back when turned off the unit so it can look ver clean
Cons : not sure how much i can flex the screen
4.Alpine ILX-107 (wireless car play) - $664 USD
Pros : wireless apple carplay this is the way to go
cons : screen will block A/C control unit
Not sure what to do, first two options are literally giving your expensive upgrade at a mercy of Apple as these companies need to update their device when new iOS get released. however, they are directly mirroring to the built in iDrive screen so looks very sleek.
#3 and 4th option, you can be sure that they will release the iOS update and can easily update them through USB connector but it might make car dashboard a bit silly with screens. also audio system must be removed and it might need to come out a littler more towards the gearbox as there is leather trim (3cm) that come out towards the gearbox just below the a/c unit.
i am leaning towards #3 Pioneer AVH-3300NEX
anyone who have had made any of these upgrades?
thanks,
J