BMW Revamps BMW Assist, Adds Google Search

[Jonathan Spira]

Starting October 1, BMW will make significant changes to the optional BMW Assist Convenience Plan—including the addition of BMW Search. The new search capabilities, which are accessible in 2009 1 Series and 3 Series models with BMW Assist and iDrive (plus the optional BMW Assist Convenience Plan), allow the driver to search Google’s database with keywords for businesses, hotels and restaurants, and other points of interest. Search results, which include address, phone number, and distance from current location, can be used to start route guidance or place a phone call.

You can now get Google search results in your car.

Unlike current in-car search capabilities, which are limited by several factors—including obsolete and incorrect data—the new BMW Search function uses information that is continuously updated by Google. BMW will also add MyInfo capabilities, which allow the driver or a friend to send address information directly to the car from Google Maps (for all BMWs except the X3). The MyInfo feature was first introduced on the X6 earlier this year.

There are other changes in the BMW Convenience Plan as well. The updated plan adds several new features—but also takes away the concierge service (provided by VIPdesk), which included recommendations and reservations for air travel, hotels, and dining, as well as comprehensive travel services and access to the Web and e-mail. In its place, BMW will add new functionality available directly through the BMW Assist call center; these new features include local fuel availability and pricing information as well as flight times and departure gates.

In addition, the BMW Assist agent will recommend restaurants and hotels close to your current location, your destination, or somewhere en route. The address information can be downloaded to your car (including phone number), but you are on your own as far as making the reservation. You can also request information on local events, such as movie showings and concerts, including show times and titles.

Discontinued services include business and personal event planning, event and concert ticket purchases, and vacation planning. Also discontinued is access to the concierge via a toll-free number; BMW Assist is intended to be used through the car’s Concierge or SOS button in your BMW.

There are no changes to turn-by-turn directions and traffic and weather services, as well as Critical Calling, a service that allows you to place a call via BMW Assist in the event your own mobile phone is not available. BMW Assist is standard for four years on the 5, 6, and 7 Series models and optional on other models. The Convenience Plan costs an additional $199 per year.—Jonathan B. Spira