4 replies to this topic

[Herself]

Model:Cooper '09
Hi everyone, just joined the forum this is my 1st post

Just got my new Mini Cooper a couple of days ago, I am in love with it.
Quick question - I have the basic Bluetooth & USB, and an iphone 3gs which I’ve paired up no problems. However the iphone doesn’t charge using the Apple USB cable, or at least it doesn’t display that it’s charging. Do I need a different cable, or is it just not compatible that way? Can you make/receive calls with basic Bluetooth?

My dealer said the two talk buttons on the steering wheel controls are obsolete, but reading around online it seems other people are managing to do it? I’ve not had a real chance to play around yet but any advice would be great.

Thanks!

[minimadjonesy]

Welcome to the forum.

I'm afraid i can't help you with your query, however you may wish to join http://www.mini2.com/ and ask your question there. Whilst you are more than welcome to stay on TMF and our members who do have the BMW Mini's may be able to help I would expect a quicker response on that forum as they are primarily BMW Mini based.

Don't leave TMF though, you will always be welcome at our events and to take part in the day to day life on here

Jonesy

[Dan]

You need a specific iPhone USB cable from BMW as I understand it.

[Ethel]

I know nothing about Iphones or Binis, but surely there would be a couple of dedicated pins in the device for power with voltage regulation/circuit protection? If it can be plugged in to any dumb, generic USB port then it should just charge.

[Dan]

All USB ports are not the same. My Dad's just got a Mini Cooper D and he needs a specific cable from BMW to charge his i-Pod. As I understand it, the i-Phone has a different charging protocol again and so needs a different cable.

Many plug-in lighter socket to USB power adaptors simply will not run or charge an i-Pod. Some won't charge a Tom-Tom either or certain phones. There are lots of standards and to be honest I'm not sure of the exact technical differences. You plug things in and they either work or they don't. It's not just down to the pins used, it's down to the shape of the power curve supplied and the current available I believe. Some leads work in some sockets and not in others.