BMW Bluetooth technology is available – with certain limitations – in newer model BMW vehicles.  The elements that this technology brings to the table can be broken down into six separate categories, as identified by BMW in their website.

First of all, there is the convenience factor.  There is a small issue of compatibility up front.  It seems that not all phones will work with the BMW setup.  While a majority of compatible phones are models by Motorola Bluetooth will also work to a lesser degree with Sony, Nokia, and Siemens model phones.  Once the compatibility issue is successfully addressed,  the BMW allows most cell phone functioned to be performed by the vehicles driver using buttons on the steering wheel.  The driver can then talk hands-free by using the microphone (installed in the vehicle) to talk and the stereo speakers to hear the person on the other end.  The radio controls allow the driver to adjust the volume of the call.

The next category is safety.  While the jury is still out on the difference between a phone call using hands-free options and phone calls while holding a phone, the bottom line on this issue is that many municipalities have made it illegal to talk on a phone while driving unless it’s hands-free.  With this in mind, the Bluetooth technology offered by BMW could save the driver money and court time.  But if it is someday determined that hands-free phone use is safer, this will become an even more important category.

How much more flexible can a system get than automatically connecting up to four compatible Bluetooth enabled phones to your BMW?  If you have four different drivers in your household that driver the same vehicle, the car will automatically identify the current phone and connect with it.  Of course, it can only connect to one phone at a time, but then again, how many people need to be on the phone at the same time in the same car?

A Bluetooth enabled BMW offers more-than adequate system security, starting with the passkey that must be entered before a phone can be paired with the vehicle system.   The paired phone and vehicle must recognize each other in order for the system to work.  The system is limited to a range of 30 feet from the vehicle, which limits potential intrusion, and the signal frequency changes 1,600 times a second.  This is truly multi-layers security.

Portability, the ability to move freely with your phone, is another feature offered with the BMW system.  If you’re on the phone when you get into the car, the Bluetooth will recognize the phone and allow hands-free operation once you turn the ignition key.  This is useful if you are engaged in an important call and works when you are leaving the car also, obviously in reverse order.

Finally, you have a fairly wide choice of carriers and phones.  Again, the main player in the BMW system is Motorola for equipment, and Cingular or T-Mobile for service.  However, there are many other options and it’s very likely that you can find a phone to your liking within your current plan.  If not, you will need to take the list of compatible phones and do a little shopping.

All in all, the BMW system beats a Bluetooth Headset hands down.  There is a certain amount of discomfort in having even a small ear piece hanging off your head for an extended period of time.  It is certainly something you can get used to, but if you can perform the same function without the ear piece, why wouldn’t you?  Of course, it’s only going to work within 30 feet of the car, so a Bluetooth headset may still be something to look in to, so your wireless needs will be covers as you walk from your car to your house.

Tagged with: Bluetooth Enabled Phones • Bluetooth Phones • Bluetooth Technology • Bmw Vehicles • Bmw Website • Compatible Phones • Hands Free Phone • Model Bmw • Motorola Bluetooth • Phone Calls • Siemens Model • Stereo Speakers • System Security

Filed under: Bluetooth Accessories   Friday, November 6th, 2009