MR12Volt P3000-BMI3 – BMW i3 NBT ID4 Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (MOST Fiber-Optic)
✔ Pure digital sound quality via the original MOST fiber-optic bus (no AUX loss)
✔ Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto while retaining 100% original BMW interior
✔ Built-in 15-band DSP equalizer & powerful custom hardware for fast startup and responsive performance
✔ Full control via iDrive controller, steering wheel & OEM microphone
Give your BMW i3 (2014–2017) equipped with the NBT ID4 system and large 10.25-inch screen a premium modern upgrade with the MR12Volt P3000-BMI3. This interface seamlessly adds wireless and wired Apple CarPlay & Android Auto to the factory infotainment system without replacing the original BMW screen or iDrive controller.
The Difference: True High-End Fiber-Optic Audio (MOST)
Unlike standard CarPlay interfaces (such as Andream or generic Allwinner-based units) that route audio through an analog AUX input, MR12Volt operates via direct digital MOST fiber-optic integration.
The audio is transmitted directly to the original BMW amplifier in top digital quality. Therefore, no AUX connection is required, ensuring zero noise or quality loss, while benefiting from Apple Lossless support combined with a powerful 15-band DSP equalizer.
Key Benefits at a Glance
- Wireless & Wired: Supports both wireless and wired connections for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- No AUX Required: Fully digital audio transmission via the original MOST fiber-optic bus.
- 100% OEM Integration: Full operation via the original iDrive controller, steering wheel buttons, and factory microphone.
- Retain Original Screen: Works flawlessly on the original BMW 10.25-inch display. Switch between the original BMW menu and CarPlay/Android Auto with a single press of a button.
- Advanced Audio (DSP): Integrated 15-band equalizer and independent volume control for navigation, media, and calls.
- Extensive Camera Support: Compatible with aftermarket rearview, front, and blind-spot cameras (up to AHD 1080P) with parking sensor display.
Features & Capabilities
Apple CarPlay (BMW i3 NBT)
- Wireless and wired Apple CarPlay
- Live navigation via Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps
- Stream music via Spotify, Apple Music, TIDAL (including Apple Lossless)
- Hands-free calling and Siri voice control using the original BMW microphone
Android Auto (BMW i3 NBT)
- Wireless and wired Android Auto
- Navigation via Google Maps and Waze
- Music streaming via Spotify, YouTube Music, and other compatible apps
- Hands-free calling and Google Assistant
- Wireless MirrorLink for Android (via CarLetter app)
System Requirements & Compatibility
Please carefully check before purchasing whether your BMW i3 meets the following specifications:
- Model: BMW i3 (I01)
- Model Years: 2014 through 2017
- Infotainment System: NBT ID4
- Screen Size: Exclusively suitable for the original 10.25-inch screen.
⚠️ Please note: Not compatible with 6.5-inch screens!
This interface is not compatible with BMW i3 models equipped with the smaller 6.5-inch display or newer EVO systems (ID5/ID6). Unsure which system you have? Feel free to contact us for advice.
Important for Installation & Coding
- TV Source Selection: The MR12Volt interface is activated through the original iDrive menu by selecting the TV source.
- TV Coding: If the vehicle does not have a factory TV module installed, TV coding must be software-coded onto the NBT system.
- Bypass Factory TV Module: If your vehicle already features a factory TV module, it must be optically bypassed using a MOST female optical loop connector (sold separately).
- Professional installation is recommended.
Specifications
| Brand & Model | MR12Volt P3000-BMI3 |
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| Vehicle | BMW i3 (2014–2017) |
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| System & Screen | NBT ID4 (Only for 10.25" display) |
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| Audio Connection | Digital MOST Fiber-Optic (No AUX needed) |
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| Audio Processing | 15-band DSP equalizer, Apple Lossless support |
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| Control | Original iDrive knob, steering wheel controls, OEM microphone |
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| Camera Input | AHD 1080P Support (Rear, Front, Blind Spot) |
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| Additional Media | USB video and USB music playback |
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Manual & Installation Videos
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is MR12Volt better than an AUX-based CarPlay module?
AUX distorts audio signals and compresses dynamic range. MR12Volt transmits sound digitally via fiber-optics directly to your factory amplifier, producing CD-quality sound without noise or latency.
Will my original BMW system and PDC continue to work?
Yes. All factory features including the original iDrive onboard computer, service menus, backup camera, and parking sensors (PDC) remain 100% intact and work exactly as intended.
Can I perform software updates myself?
Yes, future firmware updates can easily be loaded using a USB flash drive connected to the MR12Volt module's USB port.
