MUNICH: BMW says over 10 million drivers are now using the BMW and MINI apps, which are the universal interfaces between customers, their vehicles and the brands.
With the apps, drivers can keep up to date about the status of their vehicle at all times.
The app can also be used to lock and unlock the doors, activate the climate control/ventilation or, depending on the vehicle equipment, view the vehicle surrounds and interior in the app using Remote 3D View.
Additionally, it is easy to send destination addresses from the app to the vehicle’s navigation system. The app can also manage third-party services such as Amazon Alexa, for example.
On the “Services & Store” tab, the customer can get an up-to-date overview of the digital services available and booked for the vehicle at all times as well as conveniently and flexibly add ConnectedDrive upgrades.
In conjunction with BMW Digital Key Plus and depending on the vehicle equipment, the “My BMW” app can execute previously saved manoeuvres and automated parking functions from a distance of up to six metres.
The apps offer a variety of useful features for electrified vehicles also. For example, customers can get real-time information on their charging status and electric range and receive push notifications during charging about reaching the target battery charge as well as about potential irregularities.
In Europe, the customer's BMW or MINI Charging contract can be stored in the apps as required. This enables digital authentication via app at over 400,000 charging points across Europe. Billing is conveniently carried out monthly using the stored means of payment via BMW/MINI Charging.
Another core feature of both apps is the management of the vehicle’s service and maintenance needs. When a customer’s vehicle is due to be serviced, they receive a push notification and can make an appointment directly in the app. The entire service process is supported via the app with check-in, service video, status tracking and payment. Should a customer’s vehicle be involved in an accident, the app naturally also offers a speedy and efficient way of calling Roadside Assistance.
The “My BMW” and “MINI” apps were both launched in July 2020, replacing their respective predecessors, the “Connected” apps. Since then, the apps have been continuously expanded and constantly optimised based on user feedback. Both apps will continue to receive updates every two months and their range of features will be extended.
