Android Integration in BMW E90: Enhancing the Driving Experience

The BMW E90, part of the 3 Series lineup, was produced between 2005 and 2012 and is known for its sleek design, powerful performance, and high-quality features. However, as technology continues to evolve, many E90 owners are looking for ways to enhance their in-car entertainment and connectivity by integrating Android features into their BMW's infotainment system.

In this article, we'll explore how to integrate Android features into your BMW E90, including Android Auto, Android apps, and other Android-based solutions to enhance your vehicle’s entertainment, navigation, and overall driving experience.

What is Android Integration in BMW E90?

Android integration in a BMW E90 refers to the ability to connect your Android smartphone or use Android-based applications within the vehicle's infotainment system. Given that the BMW E90 was released before Android Auto became widely available, it lacks built-in support for Android features like more modern BMW models. However, there are ways to retrofit or upgrade the system to make it more Android-compatible.

There are several ways to integrate Android into your BMW E90:

  • Android Auto Retrofit Kits
  • Android-based Infotainment Systems
  • Screen Mirroring
  • Android Apps for BMW E90

Android Auto in BMW E90: A Retrofit Solution

While the BMW E90 did not come with Android Auto integration from the factory, there are retrofit solutions that allow you to add Android Auto functionality to your E90. These solutions work by replacing or upgrading the existing infotainment system with one that supports Android Auto, or by adding a compatible Android Auto box that connects to your existing system.

How to Install Android Auto in Your BMW E90

  1. Determine Compatibility: First, check if your BMW E90 has an iDrive system (BMW's infotainment system) with a screen. If it does, you're one step closer to integrating Android Auto.

  2. Purchase a Retrofit Kit: There are various retrofit kits available that can add Android Auto functionality to older BMWs. These kits usually include hardware and wiring components that allow you to connect Android Auto to the existing screen and interface.

    Popular retrofit kits include products from companies like BimmerTech, Carly, or NavTV, which provide plug-and-play solutions to add Android Auto to BMWs.

  3. Installation: Depending on the kit, installation can either be done by a professional installer or, in some cases, you may be able to install it yourself with step-by-step instructions. The process generally involves connecting the Android Auto module to the BMW’s infotainment system and ensuring compatibility with the vehicle’s display.

  4. Connect Your Smartphone: Once installed, you can connect your Android smartphone via USB or wirelessly (depending on the system) and access Android Auto’s full features, such as navigation, music streaming, messaging, and voice control through the iDrive system.

Android-based Infotainment Systems for BMW E90

For E90 owners who want a more comprehensive upgrade, swapping out the entire infotainment system for an Android-based unit is another option. This is especially beneficial for those looking to bring their E90 up to modern standards with a larger touch screen, improved resolution, and more intuitive controls.

Benefits of an Android-Based Infotainment System:

  • Larger and Better Display: Android-based infotainment systems often come with larger and more vibrant displays, offering a better visual experience.
  • Updated Software and Features: These systems come with the latest Android versions, offering access to the Google Play Store and other Android apps.
  • More Customization: Android-based systems are highly customizable, allowing users to install a wide range of apps, from navigation to entertainment, directly onto the screen.
  • Enhanced Connectivity: These systems often come with support for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Android Auto out of the box.

How to Install an Android-based Infotainment System in Your BMW E90

  1. Choose an Android Head Unit: Look for an Android head unit that fits your BMW E90’s dashboard. Some popular options include Xtrons, Pioneer, and Alpine, which offer Android-based head units specifically designed for BMW models.

  2. Installation: You can either install the system yourself if you’re tech-savvy or have a professional install it for you. The installation process usually involves removing the stock head unit and wiring the new Android-based system to your car’s electrical system.

  3. Enjoy Android Features: After installation, you’ll be able to access Android features directly from your car’s screen, including:

    • Google Maps and Waze for navigation
    • Music streaming apps like Spotify or YouTube Music
    • Voice control with Google Assistant
    • Messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram

Screen Mirroring in BMW E90

Another simple solution to bring Android functionality to your BMW E90’s screen is screen mirroring. Screen mirroring allows you to display the contents of your Android smartphone’s screen onto the BMW’s infotainment screen, including apps, videos, and games.

How Screen Mirroring Works

  • Wired Screen Mirroring: You can use an HDMI or USB cable to connect your Android device to the BMW’s infotainment screen. This will allow you to mirror your phone’s display directly to the car's screen.

  • Wireless Screen Mirroring: Some systems offer wireless screen mirroring through technologies like Miracast or Wi-Fi Direct, allowing you to display your phone’s content without the need for a physical connection.

While screen mirroring is a more basic form of Android integration, it can be a good solution for those who want occasional access to their phone’s apps without the need for a full retrofit or Android Auto setup.

Android Apps for BMW E90

In addition to Android Auto and screen mirroring, there are various Android apps that can be used to enhance the functionality of your BMW E90, both on the infotainment screen and through your smartphone.

1. BMW Connected (MyBMW) App

This official app from BMW allows you to remotely monitor and control your vehicle. Features include:

  • Remote Locking and Unlocking
  • Vehicle Status: Check fuel levels, tire pressure, and mileage.
  • Trip Planning: Send destinations directly to your BMW’s navigation system.

2. Car Scanner ELM OBD2

Car Scanner connects to your E90’s OBD-II port via a Bluetooth adapter and provides detailed real-time data about your car’s performance. You can monitor engine temperature, fuel efficiency, and troubleshoot any error codes that may appear in your car.

3. Torque Pro

Torque Pro is another diagnostic tool that provides live performance data from your BMW, such as engine parameters, fuel usage, and fault codes.

4. Carly for BMW

Carly for BMW is a versatile app that allows you to diagnose vehicle issues, perform coding and customization, and unlock hidden features in your E90. With Carly, you can adjust settings, activate additional options, and personalize your car’s features.

Conclusion

Integrating Android features into your BMW E90 can significantly enhance your in-car experience. Whether you choose to install Android Auto through a retrofit kit, replace the infotainment system with an Android-based head unit, or use screen mirroring, there are several ways to bring modern Android functionality into your vehicle. This integration offers a wide range of benefits, including enhanced navigation, music, messaging, and voice control, all of which make driving more enjoyable and connected.

Additionally, using Android apps such as BMW Connected, Car Scanner, and Carly for BMW can further enhance your BMW E90’s capabilities, allowing you to monitor the vehicle’s health, customize settings, and stay connected remotely.

Whether you are looking to bring your E90’s technology up to date or simply want to enjoy the features of your Android phone while on the road, there are multiple solutions available to integrate Android into your BMW E90 and improve your driving experience.