New Apple Lightning Adaptor creates issues with iPod Out on BMW and MINI models

The latest and greatest iteration of the iPhone model was released last week by Apple. Aside from a much larger screen and thinner appearance, the iPhone5 also comes with a new connector. The Lightning connector replaces the 30-pin connector that all previous Apple products have been using for the past 7 years.

The connector may look like a small thing but it will create issues for BMW and MINI owners because the new 8-pin setup will not work with the car’s iPod out functionality introduced in 2010. The old connector is required to connect the Apple devices to the car and make infotainment systems work. The specially created cradles inside the vehicles will not be able to accommodate the increased length of iPhone 5 as well.

Wired Autopia interviewed BMW spokesperson Dave Buchko and he said that “There is a lot we still don’t know, but BMW has a long history of finding compatibility solutions for iPods and smartphones where none existed.”  In the meantime, owners of BMWs and MINIs can still listen to audio over the built-in stereo, along with accessing BMW Apps and Mini Connected features by using the 30-pin to 8-pin adapter provided by Apple.

We expect to see an integrated solution in the near future and new accessories being developed for the iPhone 5. Unfortunately this situation affects a large array of automakers.

Source: Wired