Does the 2018 BMW 330i Come with Apple CarPlay?

BMW
1

I’m currently looking into purchasing a 2018 BMW 330i and I have a specific feature in mind: Apple CarPlay.

Could anyone here confirm whether the 2018 model includes Apple CarPlay as a standard feature or if it’s available as an upgrade?

I’ve read mixed reviews online, and I’m particularly interested in whether existing owners have had any experience with this feature. Here are a few questions I have:

  • Is it easy to set up once you have the car?
  • Do you need to have a specific package for it to be included?
  • If it isn’t available, is there a way to retrofit the system?

Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance for your help.

6 Likes
2

Yes, the 2018 BMW 330i can come with Apple CarPlay, but it may not be pre-installed in all models. Some owners had to activate it through their dealer.

4 Likes
3

That’s correct! I think it varies based on the package you choose at purchase. Definitely worth checking the specific model details.

4

I read that some owners needed to pay extra for the activation. Is there a way to know if my car already has it or not?

5

Yes, you can check via the iDrive system or look at your infotainment menu for Apple CarPlay options.

6

In my experience, it’s usually best to consult your dealer directly. They can give you the full rundown on what’s included.

7

Nice! Did they charge you for it, or was it included during a routine servicing?

8

I think it was around $300 for activation but worth every penny for the convenience!

4 Likes
9

I’m curious, though, why didn’t BMW just make it standard? Seems like a money grab to me.

10

A valid point! These things should ideally come standard in luxury cars.

11

Haha, true! All those bells and whistles… but Apple CarPlay is a necessity in today’s world, right?

2 Likes
12

I reflect on how much tech is integrated into our cars now. Makes it exciting but also a bit overwhelming at times.

13

For sure! Sometimes I just want to drive without feeling like I’m operating a spaceship.

14

Yes, the 2018 BMW 330i does come with Apple CarPlay. I’ve had a great experience using it, but sometimes it can be a bit finicky with connectivity. It usually connects well once you restart the phone though!

15

I find that really helpful! But have you faced any issues with Bluetooth music streaming while using CarPlay?

7 Likes
16

I have not had any Bluetooth issues, but I sometimes find that the CarPlay interface can be a bit slow to load. Has anyone else noticed this?

17

I’ve experienced that too! It’s only on startup though. After a minute or so, it seems to work just fine.

5 Likes
18

That sounds frustrating! I’ve had similar issues, especially with messaging apps. It seems to be an iOS issue more than the BMW system itself.

2 Likes
19

I’ve observed that sometimes the connection improves after updating the iPhone. Have you guys updated your devices recently?

20

I’ve had updates fix issues for me in the past. I’ll try that. Thanks for the tip!