E93 ipod connection

[TorqueVR]

I've just bought a 2008 E93 and have got to grips with the i-drive but cannot seem to sort out the ipod connection. I've connected via the USB socket and it comes up as"Robs ipod" but whatever option I try simply gives tracks as a long list of 4 letter codes. They play, but I don't know what I'm selecting and I cannot call up the artists, albums etc. I've used the same lead that I use for the computer but should I use the "special" BMW lead the handbook refers to?

[NORTS]

What ends does the cable you are using now have? Should be phono and iPhone. You will have better sound quality from using a USB stick by the way. Digital vs. Analogue. No longer use the iPhone in mine.

[TorqueVR]

I've plugged the ipod in with an ipod/USB lead. Are you suggesting that I should put the music on a USB stick and simply plug that in?

[NORTS]

Correct. You won't be getting digital sound through the iPod as the sound is being transferred through the 3.5mm phono which is analogue.

[five50]

Different leads are available online to connect iPhone to e9x m3 with USB under the armrest. I bought a genuine BMW lead - more expensive, but I assume also with best digital to analogue converter.
Seems to give me forwards / backwards and volume control via the steering wheel.
I don't use iTunes on my phone but weirdly the lead only started to work when I had some files loaded in iTunes.

I do also use a USB stick with mp3s on it. Sound quality is good and get full functionality.

However, I want to play music from Spotify on my phone in the car.

My favourite current setup is wireless Bluetooth streaming using a Viseoo Tune to Air 1000. Works really well. I connect it to the car via the oem BMW iPhone 30 pin lead and can stream music direct to the stereo without a weed connection to the phone.

To my ear, the sound quality is better than plugging the phone into the car with the lead. Not sure if the Viseoo somehow has better hardware. The only issue is that I can't select album / playlist via the I drive - have to do this on the phone, but isn't a big deal for me. Can go forwards / backwards thru tracks via steering wheel controls and track playing shows on the nav screen.

I have an 08 e92 m3 with the 6FL option (USB under armrest).

[five50]

Here is the Viseeo - available from various retailers if you search online:

http://www.viseeo.com/ugC_ShowroomItem_Detail.asp?...