BMW has been connecting driver and vehicle with its BMW ConnectedDrive. However, with the launch of BMW Connected this month in selected European markets, BMW is taking it up a notch by bringing out an all-encompassing digital concent. Using a flexible platform called the Open Mobility Cloud as a basis, BMW Connected seamlessly integrates the vehicle into the user's digital life via multiple touchpoints, such as an iPhone or Apple Watch.

The first version of BMW Connected focuses first and foremost on journey management for the vehicle, featuring digital products and services designed to simplify the day-to-day planning of driving routes and appointments. With BMW Connected, mobility extends beyond the vehicle.

BMW Connected is a digital companion offered in the form of an app and combines the various functions that assist with everyday mobility requirements. Once the user has set up a ConnectedDrive account and completed a short online registration process, they can create their BMW Connected customer profile quickly and easily.

From this moment, BMW Connected - which is initially being made available for Apple iPhone users - scans for any mobility-related information, such as the addresses and arrival times contained in calendar entries, and notifies the driver of the ideal departure time for arriving at their destination punctually on the basis of real time traffic information.

BMW Connected is also handy for transferring places and points of interest from other apps, storing them as a destination together with the desired arrival time, and then effortlessly importing them to BMW in-car navigation systems with just a few clicks. In the case of hybrid and BMW i models, relevant data such as the remaining range or battery charge can be retrieved remotely and factored into journey planning.