BMW Video in Motion Active by Cable iDrive 7: Exploring Android Box Solutions
For BMW enthusiasts and owners, the desire to enable video in motion, especially on the advanced iDrive 7 system, is a common pursuit. The question arises: is it truly possible to activate “BMW Video In Motion Active By Cable IDrive 7” using aftermarket solutions like Android boxes? Let’s delve into the feasibility and explore the potential of using Android boxes to achieve this, particularly focusing on models equipped with HDMI output for rear screens.
The core concept involves leveraging an Android box that connects via CarPlay to your BMW’s iDrive 7 system. This integration allows you to bypass the factory restrictions that typically disable video playback while the car is in motion. The beauty of an Android box lies in its ability to run independently, offering a gateway to various apps, including streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. Furthermore, screen mirroring capabilities extend compatibility to both Android and iOS devices through protocols like Airplay.
One intriguing approach is to utilize the Android box not just for the front screen via CarPlay, but also to simultaneously mirror the content to rear screens using HDMI output. This dual output functionality opens up possibilities for passengers to enjoy video content independently. Initial reports and user experiences suggest that this simultaneous streaming is indeed achievable with minimal to no lag between the front and rear displays. This setup even allows for seamless switching back to the native iDrive interface for functions like climate control or navigation without interrupting video playback in the rear.
However, the crucial question revolves around compatibility, especially with BMW’s notoriously “finicky” nature regarding CarPlay dongles. While BMW-specific Android boxes exist, some lack the essential HDMI port needed for rear screen mirroring. Conversely, updated Android box models like the MMB 11 Plus, which do feature HDMI and run on newer Android versions, may not explicitly list BMW compatibility, particularly for newer models with iDrive 7. It’s also noted that some existing BMW compatible boxes are limited to older iDrive 7 versions and may not support later 2021/2022 models.
The technical feasibility appears promising, as demonstrated by successful implementations of CarPlay and HDMI working concurrently. The challenge lies in bridging the compatibility gap and ensuring seamless operation with BMW’s specific iDrive 7 system, especially for video in motion activation. Further investigation, potentially reaching out to manufacturers for compatibility confirmation on specific BMW models and Android box versions with HDMI, is advisable for anyone seeking to enable “BMW Video in Motion Active by Cable iDrive 7” through this method.
