Apple's new in-car iPod feature in BMW

Apple iPod is one gadget that enjoys a massive fan following across the world. It is not merely as a music device but a complete entertainment package. Apple has been associated with a number of car makers in the past like Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Nissan, Toyota, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Audi, Honda, Renault and Volkswagen. It has provided these companies with integration in one form or the other.

The German carmakers BMW announced support for the little-heralded iPod Out feature from the iOS 4. This new feature will display the iPod interface to an external screen through the devices running the latest version. This is Apple’s own interface even though it uses the BMW iDrive system. It appears to be a combination of Front Row and old traditional iPod interfaces. This device is less distracting and has no graphics that could divert the driver’s attention. You can connect your iPhone 3G, 3GS and 4, second and third generation iPod Touches to this interface by Apple.

This would make the BMW drivers pay more attention to the road as this would be safer and more legal. Now the driver would not have to browse the iPod with his hands and compromise on his control over the car.

iPod Out also gets charged while motoring from a single wire and it helps its user to enjoy Genius mixes and playlists. The useful, safer and less distracting nature of the gadget goes well with the BMW brand that stands for comfort and style. iPod Out could be a good addition to the music system of cars across segments and could be a real rage among iPod enthusiasts.

Apple has been associated with carmakers since 2004 and carmaker BMW had released the first iPod automobile interface that year. The interface gave the drivers the option of controlling the iPod from their steering wheel.