ULF Module Voice Capable?
 

I own a 12/2004 X3 (Europe) with BT ULF Module (84.21 6-945387-01) from Visteon. I never worked with Voice Control. I wonder if Voice Control is an extra option or should work with this module.
Cheers

voice control should be built into that particular ULF.

On the X5 there is a button on the steering wheel with an icon of a speaking face. Pressing and holding that for several seconds results in a beep and you can then speak a VR command (or say "help").

I think that cars in Europe are coded to disable the VR functions in the ULF modules. I think that BMW sells VR as a separate, expensive option. Maybe a local independent mechanic can recode the ULF back to its factory defaults to enable voice recognition.

Thanks for clarify. I had the chance to contact the dealer wich told me voice control had to be requested when buying. The price doubled the unit without it. As he stated: to have this feature I need to replace my unit with a new one.:confused:

He may be right but as many on this site have found dealers do not always know what they are talking about. Keep asking around until you get enough info.

I've also been investigating Voice Control for my X3 (2006 model with latest ULF but no Voice Control option).

UK dealers cannot do retrofit coding of the ULF to active voice control as BMW has not, as of July 06, supplied a software component in the DIS to enable this particular retrofit. Note that no hardware is needed for more recent ULF's - you already have the microphone and Voice Recognition (SES?) software in the ULF as part of the BT system.

Now, a cinical view might be that since all necessary hardware and software is already in the car and a dealer price for simple retrofit coding is typically only 1 hour labour (£100+vat), word would quickly get out that the £225 option (520) could be obtained retrospectively for half price, hence damaging BMW new car revenue. :tsk:

Ironically, could can purchase a retrofit BT kit from BMW with voice enabled. This is a standard BT kit including microphone and ULF etc that comes precoded with voice control active - see UK accessories guide. Parts price is £575 which is less than new car cost of BT and Voice options !

I've inquired about voice recognition in my 05 X3 which did not have the Assist or Premium Package. I could retrofit the voice recognition since I had a visteon bluetooth module. However, the car needed to be completely recoded. Cost =
$700...

Here are your options with that module

1) replace with a NEW uncoded ULF module. Check http://www.europeanautosource.com/ for the modules as a stand alone part

2) Take your car to the dealer and have them code your ULF for voice recognition. Can get them to do it for free if you bring them coupons for lunch at Hooters or the Euro equivalent. Coding for the car is done via the retrofit path for retrofit bluetooth. You can also select the path for "US Phone series" Dealers are usually too lazy to figure it out, but it is possible.

3) add the SES voice recognition module. Silly option, but still an option.