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No, BMW does not charge for Apple CarPlay on new vehicles anymore—it is now included as a standard, complimentary feature on all models equipped with iDrive 7 or newer systems[1]. BMW reversed its controversial $80 annual subscription fee in December 2019 following significant customer backlash, making CarPlay free for the life of the vehicle[2]. The company even refunded customers who had already paid during the brief subscription period[3].
The BMW CarPlay Subscription Controversy
BMW generated considerable negative publicity in mid-2019 when it became the only luxury automaker to charge recurring fees for Apple CarPlay[4]. The decision seemed particularly questionable given that budget brands like Hyundai, Volkswagen, and Skoda offered CarPlay at no additional cost.
The subscription model launched with 2019 model year vehicles and included three pricing tiers[1]:
| Plan Type | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | Free | Trial period included with purchase |
| Annual Subscription | $80/year | Required after first year |
| Three-Year Package | $255 | Reduced annual cost |
| Lifetime/20-Year Option | $295-300 | One-time payment |
BMW justified the fee by claiming that wireless CarPlay technology could cause compatibility issues with factory-installed features when Apple released software updates[2]. The subscription was supposed to fund BMW’s ongoing development of iDrive system updates to maintain compatibility.
The explanation failed to satisfy customers who pointed out that other automakers managed to offer CarPlay without charging extra. Within months, BMW reversed course entirely.
BMW’s Policy Reversal in December 2019
In December 2019, BMW announced that Apple CarPlay would become free for all owners of vehicles equipped with the OS7 (iDrive 7) infotainment system[3]. The reversal applied retroactively—owners who had already purchased subscriptions were upgraded to unlimited lifetime access at no additional cost[3].
Car and Driver reported that BMW decided keeping CarPlay free was necessary to remain competitive in the market[2]. The brief subscription experiment lasted only about six months, from July to December 2019.
Key timeline:
- Pre-2019: CarPlay available as $300 one-time option
- July-December 2019: $80/year subscription introduced
- December 2019-Present: CarPlay included free with navigation[1]
For comparison, Audi has never charged separately for Apple CarPlay. See our guide on Audi’s Apple CarPlay policy for details on that brand’s approach.
Which BMW Models Include Free CarPlay?
Apple CarPlay comes standard on all new BMWs equipped with iDrive 7 or newer systems and factory navigation[1]. This covers the vast majority of current models:
Full CarPlay Compatibility (Free)
| Model Series | iDrive Version | CarPlay Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Series (2020+) | iDrive 7/8 | Included free |
| 3 Series (2019+) | iDrive 7/8 | Included free |
| 4 Series (2021+) | iDrive 7/8 | Included free |
| 5 Series (2021+) | iDrive 7/8 | Included free |
| 7 Series (2020+) | iDrive 7/8 | Included free |
| 8 Series (2019+) | iDrive 7/8 | Included free |
| X3 (2018+) | iDrive 7/8 | Included free |
| X5 (2019+) | iDrive 7/8 | Included free |
| X7 (2019+) | iDrive 7/8 | Included free |
| i4, iX, i7 | iDrive 8 | Included free |
BMW offers wireless CarPlay as standard—a significant advantage over many competitors that still require a USB cable connection[2]. This wireless capability was actually one of BMW’s justifications for the original subscription fee, though that argument proved unpersuasive to consumers.
For information on specific BMW models, see our guides on the 2025 BMW X3 or the 2025 BMW M3.
Older BMW Models and CarPlay Fees
While new BMWs include CarPlay at no cost, some older models present different situations[3]:
Models with OS6 (iDrive 6)
Vehicles still equipped with BMW’s previous-generation infotainment software (OS6/iDrive 6) may require an activation fee. Auto Express reported that models like the i3, i8, and the outgoing 2 Series and 4 Series with OS6 required a £235 (approximately $300) fee for CarPlay activation[3].
Pre-2017 Models
BMWs manufactured before 2017 generally lack native CarPlay support entirely. These vehicles would require aftermarket solutions to add CarPlay functionality.
Used BMW Buyers
If purchasing a used BMW from the 2018-2020 model year range, verify CarPlay status before buying[1]. While most should have free lifetime access following the policy reversal, some vehicles may have unusual situations:
- Check that CarPlay appears in the iDrive menu
- Test the connection with your iPhone
- If CarPlay shows as inactive, contact BMW customer service—the free upgrade should still apply
BMW ConnectedDrive and CarPlay
BMW’s ConnectedDrive digital services store underwent changes following the CarPlay controversy[1]. The platform now clearly shows CarPlay as included at no additional cost.
Other ConnectedDrive services maintain subscription pricing:
- Remote Services: Monthly/annual fees apply
- Concierge Services: Subscription required
- Real-Time Traffic: Subscription-based
- Apple CarPlay: Free (no longer subscription-based)[1]
Understanding BMW’s subscription services is important when evaluating BMW ownership costs overall.
How to Activate BMW Apple CarPlay
Setting up CarPlay on your BMW is straightforward[5]:
- Ensure your BMW has iDrive 5.0 or newer plus factory navigation
- On your iPhone, enable Siri, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
- Open the iDrive menu and navigate to Mobile Devices
- Select Pair New Device and follow prompts
- For wireless CarPlay, allow pairing when prompted on both devices
Once paired, CarPlay launches automatically when your iPhone is detected near the vehicle. The wireless connection means you can keep your phone in your pocket or bag while using CarPlay features.
Android Auto on BMW
Following the same policy change, BMW also offers Android Auto at no cost[1]. Android Auto became available on BMW vehicles starting with 2020 models, later than CarPlay but also without subscription fees.
Both smartphone integration systems work similarly, allowing drivers to use navigation, music, messaging, and calling apps through the iDrive display. For more on BMW technology features, see what year BMW got Apple CarPlay.
Key Takeaways
- Apple CarPlay is 100% free on all new BMWs with iDrive 7 or newer and navigation—no subscription required
- BMW reversed its controversial $80/year subscription policy in December 2019 following customer backlash[2]
- Wireless CarPlay comes standard, unlike many competitors requiring cable connections
- 2019-2020 model owners received free lifetime upgrades even if they originally paid for subscriptions
- Used BMW buyers should verify CarPlay status, especially on 2018-2020 models
- BMW now treats CarPlay the same as Audi and other luxury brands—included at no extra cost
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there still a BMW CarPlay subscription fee?
No, BMW eliminated all CarPlay subscription fees in December 2019[2]. Apple CarPlay is now included free for the life of the vehicle on all BMWs equipped with iDrive 7 or newer and factory navigation.
How much did the BMW Apple CarPlay subscription cost?
Before being eliminated, the subscription cost $80 per year, with options for three-year ($255) or lifetime ($295-300) packages[1]. All customers who paid were upgraded to free unlimited access or received refunds.
What years did BMW charge for Apple CarPlay?
BMW charged for CarPlay briefly from July 2019 to December 2019, affecting some 2019 and 2020 model year vehicles[1]. The policy was reversed after approximately six months due to customer complaints.
Do I need to pay for CarPlay in a used BMW?
Most used BMWs from 2019 onward should have free CarPlay access following the policy reversal[1]. Verify functionality before purchasing by testing the CarPlay connection. Pre-2017 models lack native CarPlay support entirely.
Does BMW offer wireless CarPlay?
Yes, BMW was actually a pioneer in offering wireless CarPlay connectivity[2]. Unlike many competitors that require USB cables, BMW’s implementation allows fully wireless operation once your iPhone is paired.
References
- Autvex. (2025). Does BMW Charge for Apple CarPlay? https://autvex.com/does-bmw-charge-for-apple-carplay/
- Car and Driver. (2019). Apple CarPlay Is Free for BMW Owners, Starting Now. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a30139034/bmw-apple-carplay-free/
- Auto Express. (2019). BMW rows back on decision to charge Apple CarPlay subscription fees. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/bmw/107492/bmw-rows-back-on-decision-to-charge-apple-carplay-subscription-fees
- Car Throttle. (2024). BMW North America Is Charging Subscription Fees For Apple CarPlay. https://www.carthrottle.com/news/bmw-north-america-charging-subscription-fees-apple-carplay
- CarPlay for BMW. (2024). Do You Have to Pay for Apple CarPlay in BMW? https://carplayforbmw.com/do-you-have-to-pay-for-apple-carplay-bmw/
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
