[jer1122]

In regards to the news item posted today which I have insterted below this text, I called my local Saab dealership in excitement the minute I read this. Unfortunately, I talked to local and Saab Corporate techs which confirmed that they DO have a kit in the center console that will power the iPod (and other MP3 players) BUT you will NOT be able to see song info, playlists, etc. on the Saab display "Infotainment Unit" nor control the iPod from the steering wheel controls. The only thing you can control is the volume, bass, and treble since it utilizes an AUX port on the stereo. That's it! What a bummer! I was ready to jump on this but it is just a glorified iTrip in my opinion. Unless we hear different...it sounds like it's not close to the BMW/iPod integration. Someone please prove otherwise with pictures if they get one!


Saab offers iPod integration kit
Saab has quietly introduced its own iPod/MP3 Player audio integration system. The new system, listed in the most recent Saab Accessories Catalog from October 2004, offers direct input for and control of the iPod on its Saab 9-3, according to one MacNN reader: "I spoke with the parts department at my dealership and they confirmed that it's available. Evidently it's wired through to the center console armrest and will be out of site. A tech told me the unit has power and will be able to control the iPod from the steering wheel controls. I took this to mean switching songs via the OnStar / radio controls that are stock on Saab 9-3s." Apple and BMW announced iPod-compatible cars in September 2004.

[JMII]

The BWM system is nothing to write home either really... it does not list song titles or artist. The only REAL solution available right now is the one Alpine has out that interfaces the iPod with certain models of thier head units. Because thier head units where designed to navigate MP3 CDs it can read the iPod like a series of folders and display the names/titles properly.

This is the problem with just about all the add-on iPod car audio systems, they were never designed to handle things like playlists. Right now Alpine is the only one I know of that has solved the problem, they worked with Apple on the solution and even delayed the product release until they confirmed it worked with lastest iPod updates.

- John

[subego]

Originally posted by JMII:
The BWM system is nothing to write home either really... it does not list song titles or artist.

No kidding.

I walked out of the dealership without one. A tech actually came onto the floor to give me an article about how bad it sucked. In addition to any native suckage, it's also not compatible with the GPS option or the upgraded stereo option.

If would be great if someone could rationalize that last bit, I know I can't.

The tech suggested having a 3.5mm jack in the center console, and using the extra cigarette lighter behind the console to juice it. He said this is what he put in his car after finding out how worthless the BMW unit is.

I must admit I gave myself a little pat on the back for the idea of using a RemoteRemote2. Since it's RF, I won't have to take my eyes off the road and go digging around to change a track.