Hi All,
Looks like the X2 owners' group is really dead. I understand that there is a vibrant X1 community out there. In any case, let me answer my own question regarding the Apple Car Play issue for X2 and other "lower end" models. I got their reply in March 2019 after speaking and emailing with Connected Drive people. See below:
"
We wish to inform you that all the X2 sold by our authorized dealer (PML) are not capable of using Apple CarPlay due to lack of certain equipment/options.
Equipment/options decision are made by the dealerships, and it vary from model to model.
In order to use the Apple CarPlay service, the vehicle must be equipped with SA609 system Professional plus either SA6NS Enhanced Telephony or SA6NV Telephony with Wireless Charging."
So Apple Car Play is not possible because we only have S6UNA Navigation (from Vin Decoder) eventhough S6CPA Preparation Apple CarPlay was present. I wrote back to thank them for their response and mentioned that it was quite a shame since Apple Car Play and Android Auto are widely available in Korean and Japanese cars and asked about the possibility of making it available for all lower series BMWs. Naturally, I did not receive a reply and closed the case.
To make the matter more laughable, we received an email from Arnt Bayer, MD of Performance Motors on 26 Dec 2019. See below:
"
We have a treat for all BMW ConnectedDrive customers—unlimited support for Apple CarPlay®, free of charge.
All customers whose vehicles are equipped with Apple CarPlay® Preparation will now have unlimited access to Apple CarPlay®. This includes existing and new customers who purchased, renewed or ordered this service from the factory.
The best part is: you don’t have to do anything at all.How to use:To use Apple CarPlay® in your vehicle with your iPhone, simply choose ‘Apple CarPlay’ as the connection mode for your mobile device in the communication settings.
Due to the sheer volume of vehicles in our database, we seek your patience and understanding if this change is not immediately reflected.
You can check on the current status of Apple CarPlay® and ConnectedDrive services for your vehicle by visiting www.bmw-connecteddrive.sg.
Should you have any questions, please contact info@bmw-connecteddrive.sg or call BMW Customer Care at 1800 269 6464.
So naturally, I called up Connected Drive again regarding this offer. After some to and fro, I was told that this offer was conditional on those who had purchased Apple Car Play subscription or have an active subscription. And .......... Yes, I do qualify. They helped checked my "Apple CarPlay Preparation" and there is no longer an expiration date.
HOWEVER, I still don't have the right equipment for Apple Carplay to work.... So the only way to "enjoy this offer" is either to upgrade my equipment or upgrade to a higher series BMW car with Apple Carplay equipment. #niceone; #fantastic upselling