The bluetooth function with iPhone works the same as other bluetooth supported devices (some phones and Phone/PDA's). If the vehicle has the bluetooth option, the electrical system is 'on' and a linked bluetooth device is in range (varies by device) it (the bluetooth device) is operable via the iDrive function.

The optional device specific adaptor is not required.

The use of the a specific device adaptor requires the installation of a special cradle device (installed in the armrest bin I think) which the adaptor snaps into. The device is then snapped into the adaptor. This allows you to change out adaptors when you change phones (provided the device is supported and BMW provides the device specific adaptor.

The advantage of using the cradle/adaptor is that your device is powered/recharged via the adaptor and the device is connected to the vehicle antenna array which may boost reception.

I think most folks just link their phone & go. I hardly ever remove mine from it's belt case. I just hop in & the phone is linked and available before I get backed out of my garage (ymmv.)

I am uncertain if the cradle/adaptor will support the iPhone music function. I am not sure if BMW supports the IPhone music function yet.

I do not believe that you can play music over the bluetooth link. The phone and music functions of the the iPhone are separate. To my knowledge Apple has never deployed bluetooth connectivity for any iPod device (and I doubt they ever will.....)

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2008 4.8i Mineral Green Metallic Sports Package, Technology Package, Cold Weather Package, Rear Climate Package, Premium Package, Premium Sound with iPod adaptor & Sirius Radio, Auto Tailgate, Head up display