Ipod adapter vs smart phone integration for iPhone
 

I ordered my 2010 X5 3.5D, but one thing still bothers me. Both me and my wife have iPhones, and need a hands free device in NY. Ordering smart phone kit adds up to $550 because you need both the kit and iPod adapter. On top of that my CA is saying you need another accessory (which I think he is just wrong). I am already paying for BMW Assist that includes BlueTooth, so extra $550 sounds like an expensive charger in terms of additional functionality. Does anyone has any experience with this?
Separately, how does the accessory iPod interface adapter differ from the iPod USB adapter package? do you need both?

Thanks everyone

PS. I am glad they are rolling out HD-based Navi on 2010s. That was my biggest fear that we'll get stuck with the old dvd system. I don't care much for styling changes rumored in a few month. Unless they come out with Audi-stile LED eyelashes on the headlights, which I can't see BMW doing.

I dont see what is the problem... You have bluetooth in the iPhone, your car has bluetooth built-in. You are all set to use your iPhone hands-free (as a phone, not a media player)

If you have the bluetooth, you do not need the additional stuff. Basically, what the smart phone and ipod options do is allow you to slip your iphone into a cradle where it will (a) have power and stay charged, and (b) be connected to the external "shark fin" antenna, giving you better reception, and (3) have access to all the music on your iphone.

Thanks, Penguin and AlexMish!
Thats what I thought, but wandered if there is something I am missing. Does BMW Assist import iPhone contacts? They could also integrate it with the Navi (i.e. go to a contact from iPhone address book).We'll find out when someone actually receives one. But even if they do, its an expensive toy. All I really need is a BT.

BTW, I am scheduled for delivery 11/11/09 in South Carolina! I am so excited...

The Blue tooth in our 2005 X5 and our 2006 5 series both do the hands free thing.
Neither of us have BMW assist and yes the iPhone contacts are downloaded
but BMW assist has nothing to do with that process.

Does this auto have Bluetooth audio?

I hear the dock allows you to control the "iPod" with the wheel controls, but not sure if this includes the phone functions of the iPhone.

I also heard that the 2009 X5 would not charge the 3G, so hopefully this was fixed with the 2010. that may be what the "other connector" SA referred to.

I am hoping for a chargeable cable, since I spend a lot of time in my car, as well as Bluetooth audio.

>> If you ordered the "6FL" USB/Ipod Adapter then it comes with the charging cable.

Smartphone only has item (3) over and above the standard iPhone Cradle option right (which provides a) and b)) ?