Now I’m not exactly sure how the MINI Cooper Connected platform works, but having Pandora visuals integrated directly into a speedometer with steering wheel audio controls seems pretty hot. And that’s exactly what they’ve announced:
MINI USA announced today that the company is collaborating with Pandora to develop the first third party app for MINI Connected. Upon completion, Pandora internet radio will be available at no charge and allow customers to access and control Pandora through the existing MINI Connected system.
I’d suspected the MINI Connected communicated via some sort of integrated and subscription-based GSM cellular technology, yet it appears MINI quite literally harnesses the power of one’s iPhone to hit the Internet. Of course it’s probably more cost effective to buy an iPhone dock or line in cable to use with one’s current ride… but I am quite attracted to the Clubman.
Click to enlarge:
Yes. YES!
I saw a new Mini Countryman on the honeymoon. Its likely to be my next car.
Mini connected already has ‘web radio’ so Pandora must just be an extension of using the iPhone’s data connection like everything else Connected uses.
Mini and BMW were very early success stories for iPod integration, so this is cool to see. What’s less cool is the need to harness the iPhone cellular connection in an era when unlimited data plans are shriveling up. North of 50MB per hour of listening unless they’re really cranking down the quality, Pandora streaming could quickly tear through your monthly plan.
Wussed out with “speedometer”….disappointed….
Well, I did my research. The speedometer is in the center of the car whereas the tachometer is behind/above the steering wheel. Which I guess offsets your safety concerns. :) Even if it doesn’t sound as cool.