ct530

How is the Motorola V710 from Verizon with Bluetooth on E60? Have the problems been corrected yet?

Currently, I have the the Motorola V60 (like the BMW CPT-9000 phone) regular phone that I could use in my E60 if I got the cradle installed (probably $300 with install and phone enabling).

Should I get the V710 and get bluetooth enabled (on my March 2004 production car) for around $150 or pay $300 for a cradle etc. for my existing V60 phone?

teriyaki88

Found at Bimmerfly:

From 645 forum.......


Sent: Friday, February 18, 2005 7:45 AM
Subject: bluetooth now available for Verizon motorolla v710phones


Dear Center Managers:

BMW NA received confirmation today from Verizon Wireless that a software upgrade (V710 SW8700_01.40R) has been distributed to all Verizon Wireless stores nationally.

This new software will allow the popular Motorola V710 handset to properly synchronize and download its phone book to MY2005 and later BMWs equipped with BMW Assist (except MY2005 7 Series with CPT9000 handsets and 3 Series sedans produced before 10/04). This software can be installed into existing customers' handsets upon customer request at no charge, but only at authorized Verizon Wireless stores (not kiosks or resellers). Purchasers of new handsets purchased should request and confirm that this software version is installed.

An updated list of recommended Bluetooth handsets containing this information has been posted on CenterNet under MENU: BMW/BMW Assist/Bluetooth Handsets.

BMW is pleased that Verizon Wireless customers can now enjoy hands-free and wire-free calling in our vehicles.

Sincerely,

Fran Dance
Telematics Business Development Manager
201-307-3843

teriyaki88

I got my May 545 to work with the Moto V710 this week. The process was smooth. My Moto has the latest software 1.40R. The phone is recognized by the car, the address book synchs by itself, and phone calls are fine. The sound quality at my end is very good. Not great but this isn't a landline either. The sound at the other end is supposedly echo-y but still gets the job done. I'm impressed.

Likes:
1) I like the fact that I can have the stereo blasting. If a call comes in, i ususally miss the call since I can't hear the phone ringing. This setup will mute the stereo so i can hear the phone ringing. If i still don't hear it, the Idrive will show that a call is coming in.
2) Hands-free operation
3) Phone book on the idrive is definately easier than fumbling through my phone using one hand. Its easier to read the Idrive than the phone.
4) Voice dialing (didn't think i'd use this feature)
5) Caller-ID on the Idrive. i don't have to grab my phone. Take a look to see who's calling, etc. The ID automatically appears on the IDrive
6) Voice dialing (a separate from what's on my phone). 50 or so names I can have on the Car.

Dislikes:
1) I can't seem to delete any names from the address book (on the Idrive). The manual says I can but I can't do it.
2) To store names, the process is a bit frustrating. It gets confused with similar sounding commands like "dave" and "save" .
3) For people on in the address book with multiple numbers, you can't tell which one is their cell, home, work, fax, etc.

These are minor inconveniences though.

It cost $200 to have the Bluetooth enabled on my car. So far I'd have to say it was worth it. I wish Verizon would enable other BT features. I'd love to be able to send my contact list from my Palm T3 to the phone direct, and also be able use my Palm to browse the internet using my Moto v700's BT connection. Phone's capacity/features are not being fully. But this is unique to Verizon but not other carriers. There is a class action lawsuit pending. Perhaps they will correct it.

Teriyaki

WeeDee

I have from a good resource @ BMW that V710 Motorola only works with system software 1.3E.0R for cars in the US with the 633 option included, only for models produced from 03/2005 onwards (but no support for SMS). Phones with system software 1.20.xx are not supported at all.

WhiteTooth

I also installed a V710 this week and generally agree with what Teriyaki88 said below, quoting:

"I got my May 545 to work with the Moto V710 this week. The process was smooth. My Moto has the latest software 1.40R. The phone is recognized by the car, the address book synchs by itself, and phone calls are fine. The sound quality at my end is very good. Not great but this isn't a landline either. The sound at the other end is supposedly echo-y but still gets the job done. I'm impressed."

HOWEVER, I do not really find the "echo-y" quality on the receiving end as acceptable. I'm checking with Verizon and my BMW dealer...$285 for three hours all labor to get it to work...

ct530

Just today I picked up my 03/04 production 545i from the bluetooth enabling programming for my new Motorola v710 phone from verizon. It cost me $129 and it seems to work well. I have not really noticed any echo.