iPhone integration?

[agent orange]

Hey guys, just wondering if anyone here has found a clean solution to integrating an iPhone into their e30.

Ideally, I would like a dock-type interface, with only one cable running from the dock connector to my aux on my deck. Right now, I'm using this: http://www.griffintechnology.com/products/autopilot
It gives me an easy-connect solution with integrated controls, which is essential when I'm driving. the cords both come out of the right side of the base, though... which means there's instant clutter in an e30, unless I tear my center console apart to route the cables. I also don't like how I have to fumble for the phone if it rings (currently the dock connector doesn't support calls)

So, I've seen guys online that just take their dock, paint it black and mount it in their car... which seems a little ghetto to me, but it might work... So far, I've seen recommendations for Proclip Docks, and DICE docks http://cgi.ebay.com/DICE-Electronics...QQcmdZViewItem But I can't really tell what's going to fit best in my car...

So, if anyone has any recommendations, or pics of a custom iphone install in their e30, I would love to see it. :)

[kumulonimbus]

Apologies for reviving an old thread, but I've been gathering info on this exact topic and this was the only thread I could find that was relevant.

I first was inspired by how this concept:

Sadly they don't make this for E30, but I saw someone pull off something similar: [link]
Right in the ashtray, and the lid closes for a clean look if you aren't using it.
Then I found this DIY for the same concept: [link]

The other issue is integration with the car's audio, and possibly a mic. Lots of aftermarket decks have a USB port (placement in the back of the head unit is cleaner) that supports iPhone, some with mics, though my research says that the mics will interface only with the phone's bluetooth and not with the single dock connection.

I still haven't found a deck that supports iPhone and doesn't stick out like a sore thumb or look rice (anyone have suggestions?), so Bavarian Soundwerks has something they claim will integrate with stock BMW audio system. Not sure how it works.

Lastly, there are those all-in-ones like the O Car. An easier route but doesn't fit everyone's tastes.

[brohandy]

It looks really cool to me, especially in a good place like that. Or is the picture not what you're looking for?

[einstein57]

Here is the "ghetto" dock. If you take your time and do use quality materials it will come out nice. I think i spent $30-40



I used epoxy to hold the cable and base in place. Then used body filler to get a uniform flat surface. Then i finished it off with some SEM trim spray. Been holding up for a couple years.

[German Audio Specialties]

If we were to make you guys a proper "ithingie" dock that used a modded stock ashtray, closed properly, fit perfectly, nice and solid, something clean and professional, how much would that be worth to you? $120ish? $150ish? if you say $50, GFY.

Making a few fairly simple ithingie docks would not be too bad, but I would also have to have "core charges". I know I can find a dozen or so stock ashtrays locally, so that might not be an issue. On a side note, have any of you ever cut that ashtray material? It has toxic fumes that are nasty indeed. If you do decide to try, PLEASE wear a proper respirator!

I am open to the idea of building something that mounts it for you guys, but the electronics is a whole 'nother can of worms. I would go as far as a generic USB dock cable, (as decided by group vote?). I use no apple products, so I lack experience in what brand/product would work best. How it would go is you guys pick the parts and I will make it work.

For a price, that is.

Luke

[kinvodA]

Yes yes yes!

[MC Hammered]

I use a Blackberry Music Gateway and just stream the music via Bluetooth to an AUX in port.

The phone auto pairs to the device once the car is started.

I am waiting for the Kivic One to be released as that will give you Airplay digital streaming without the need of a router.

[lambo]

This is what I have been using for a year now. Just an iPod dock I bought from Wal-Mart. Works beautifully and looks pretty clean imo.

[TurboJake]

My alpine deck has a long ass cord that it plugs into. I ran it all the way down the center console and put the ipod in the rear ashtray.

I never take it out unless it's getting new music, so it's not a bother. Out of sight, out of mind.