BMW rolls out Connected app 11 | 08 | 2016

BMW IS TAKING the next major step towards enable users to more effectively integrate a car into their digital life by rolling out its new Connected smartphone-based technology.

Due next month, Connected technology app can transfer navigation information between the two devices by linking an owner’s car to their smartphone. That means once you climb out of your BMW, you’ll be able to follow navigation instructions that had started on the road after they’ve left their car. Clever, huh?

The system — and ok, this may sound a bit like Big Brother’s watching you — but the system will also be able to recognise personal mobility patterns, such as the daily commute. And that means if there are any traffic disruptions on the regular route, Connected can pre-warn a driver using a phone notification.

And according to BMW, by accessing an owner's smartphone calendar, the system will also allow the technology to offer similar route guidance and predictions for events in a user’s diary.

And if you’ve ever lost your car, at night, in a large car park, by using ConnectedDrive on their smartphone, drivers will be able to flash their car’s headlights remotely, allowing them to find their BMW. Oh, and the system will also allow them to lock and unlock their car via their smartphone.

Personally, I thought that was what the key was for, but hey-ho!

This month’s launch of the new technology represents the first phase of BMW’s new software. Updates will be applied within the next two months via Connected SIM cards, which are integrated into all new BMWs.

At present, BMW’s Connected tech only works with Apple iPhones and Apple Watches; other smartphones will be added in the near future.

It’s also understood that  the technology will also trickle down into its Mini brand within the next 12 months.

Related: New BMWi centre launches in Scotland

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Jim McGill