BMW and Mini hook up with GoPro for a high-tech road show

Opening a new era of in-car cool, the BMW Group and GoPro have announced the industry’s first-ever mass-market integration of a GoPro camera with a vehicle’s on-board infotainment system. (The operative word here is mass-market, since the Chevy Corvette offers a similar setup). Set to go active in July, the integration allows for full configuration and control of a GoPro unit via the iDrive controller and high-def screen. This new system will be functional in any 2012 or later BMW Group vehicle equipped with either BMW Apps or Mini Connected. In addition to a Wi-Fi-equipped GoPro camera – a Hero3+ or newer – the system requires an iPhone4 or later with the latest GoPro App installed (available for free from the iTunes Store). The unit then links to the vehicle with either an Apple USB cable or BMW’s dedicated snap-in iPhone adapter. 

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Calling this cooperative endeavor "creative and insightful," Phil Johnston, Head of BMW Group AppCenter USA finds GoPro a natural match for BMW and Mini enthusiast drivers. "The power and flexibility of the BMW Group App Integration Platform coupled with GoPro’s advanced camera technology brings new, safe, and engaging experiences to the enthusiasts that were previously not possible." Adam Silver, GoPro Director of Strategic Product Opportunities echoes those sentiments observing: "The GoPro and BMW collaboration sets a new standard in the category and is an important first step in a partnership designed to deliver next-level integration between camera and car." 

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As for its operational capabilities, this driver-focused package was designed to offer maximum flexibility with minimal distraction. Beyond basic camera aiming, it provides six pre-set modes — Leisure Drive Facing Out, Night Driving, Sport Drive Facing Out, Drive Camera Facing In, Winding Road Timelapse and Straight Road Timelapse. All key camera status indicators, including elapsed recording time, remaining battery life and Wi-Fi signal strength, are displayed on screen while a Sleep mode allows the operator to extend time between charges. 

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