How to remove storage compartment from center console?
 

I have the center console out and disassembled from a 2008 X5 BMW. Can not sort out how to remove the storage compartment from the console frame. As the storage compartment is sold independently, you would think there must be a way. Any help would be greatly appreciated, maybe even a video someone has put together. Thanks.

Do you mean the pocket where the phone cradle would go? That's held in place by eight (8) Yes, 8 screws, 4 from the top and two on each side. When I took it apart to replace the sliding cover for the cup holders and to remove the loose change that moved every time I accelerated or braked, I made sure to NOT install the side ones.
Anyway, you can remove the side panels next to the seats and you should see them (I believe as I took mine apart about two years ago).

Thanks for the reply. It is the storage compartment under the arm rests that I would like to remove. I have the interior of the car completely gutted. Drying it out after the rear window washer feed tube saturated the interior with water.
I have every bolt, screw and panel off the console, completely disassembled to the frame. Just can't sort out how to remove the storage compartment. Either the cigarette lighter USB plate stops it or the light in the rear stops it from being removed. There seems to be a trick, just not sure what it is.