CarPlay Interface for BMW i3 I01 (2013-2020): How to Install Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

The BMW i3 (I01, 2013-2020) was BMW's first compact electric car and is still driven around many Spanish cities, valued for its reliability and low running costs. Its iDrive screen, however, was designed before Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became industry standard, so from the factory the i3 doesn't let you connect your smartphone. Luckily there's a specific interface that adds these features without touching the original iDrive.

Does the BMW i3 have CarPlay as standard?

It depends on the year: BMW started offering CarPlay as a paid option on the i3 from certain NBT EVO system updates onward, but many units from the 2013-2020 period were sold without this option activated at the factory, or directly with the earlier NBT system, which doesn't support it. If your i3 doesn't have CarPlay activated, the only way to add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto without paying BMW's official subscription is to install an interface like the one presented here.

The solution: CarPlay interface for the BMW i3

This interface connects to the i3's NBT/EVO system and adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto directly on the original screen, without replacing it or installing an additional screen. Its main features:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both wireless and wired.
• AirPlay and Autolink (mirror link) to mirror your phone's screen.
• Integrates into the i3's original screen (NBT/EVO system), without changing it.
• Keeps iDrive and all factory functions: climate control, battery and range data, vehicle settings.
• Compatible with the reversing camera and navigation with Google Maps or Waze.

BMW i3 compatibility: supported versions

This interface is specific to the BMW i3 (I01 chassis) built between 2013 and 2020, in both its pure electric version and the REx range-extender variant, provided it has the NBT or NBT EVO infotainment system. If your i3 already has factory CarPlay activated (more recent units with an active subscription), you don't need this interface. If you're unsure which multimedia system your unit has, you can send us a photo of your screen's menu to confirm compatibility before buying.

What is the installation like?

1. Access is gained to the rear connector of the iDrive screen, usually located behind the central unit or in the boot, depending on the variant.
2. The interface is connected to the NBT/EVO system, with no cutting or splicing of original cables.
3. The CarPlay/Android Auto source is activated from the car's own iDrive menu.
4. The phone is paired via WiFi/Bluetooth for wireless use.

As this is an electric vehicle with specific electronics, we recommend the installation be carried out by a car electronics installer experienced with BMW, although the process does not require modifying the high-voltage wiring or any part of the vehicle's electrical system.

How much does it cost to install CarPlay in the BMW i3?

At the dealer, BMW offers CarPlay through a paid subscription (annual or one-off, depending on the market and current campaign), which on older units may not be available or may require an additional software update with a labour cost. The specific PantallasPremium interface costs from €399.97 as a one-off payment, with no recurring subscriptions, and keeps the i3's original design and iDrive.

Frequently asked questions

Does it work on the REx range-extender version?
Yes, the interface is compatible with both i3 variants (pure electric and REx), provided they have the NBT or NBT EVO system.

Do I lose the battery and range data on the screen?
No, the interface only adds CarPlay and Android Auto as an additional source; the rest of the iDrive menus, including battery data, keep working as before.

Does it work without cables?
Yes, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work wirelessly, although it can also be used with a cable if preferred.

Is it the same as activating BMW's official CarPlay?
Not exactly: BMW's official CarPlay usually requires a paid subscription and is only available on units with compatible hardware. This interface adds the same function via additional hardware, with a one-off payment.

Do I need to modify the car's electrical system?
No, the installation connects to the multimedia system (NBT/EVO) and does not affect the vehicle's high-voltage electrical system.

See the CarPlay interface for BMW i3

If you want to add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to your BMW i3 without giving up the original iDrive design, you can see all the details and buy the CarPlay interface for BMW i3 in our store.