I know, I know, use search, & I did.....
and still did not come up with a solid answer..

I found some stuff on bfest, and one question of it mentioned here..

I wanted to upgrade my nav cd, but did not know what version i have so i can get the correct one, there are a bunch of cds on ebay and wanted to go that route in stead of the dealer way. I found a couple pages which tell you how to go in idrives secret menu and access it but they just give you a set of numbers.

I dont know how to translate that in to software version..

Here is what i found on BFest... (i dont know how to cite them correctly (using MLA format on forums) so here is the link and copied version)
----------
To access the Secret Menu:

1. Push down i-Drive knob for approx 8 sec
2. Turn right 3 clicks
3. Turn left 3 clicks
4. Turn right 1 click
5. Turn left 1 click
6. Turn right 1 click
7. Push down i-Drive knob
-------------
source: BimmerFest OS version

If you want to update the nav cd, actually a dvd, you have to eject it. On it you'll find the version.

The secret menu is not telling you anything about your nav disc. IT is not even telling you anything about the cars software.
For info on the software version of your car (CIP/progman) you need to ask your dealer.

ahh, okay, so if i were to ask the dealer, what progman i have they will prob be able to tell me just by looking it up in their system.
Well, i just asked the dealer what os i have, they said it does not matter, what os you have, 530 , 2006, are all the same, and all you need is the new nav DVD which is 199. 00 i think its way to much for a nav dvd...

Well, they are not all the same, since there are newer and older software versions.
But the OS doesn't need to be updated if you want the newest nav infos/data/maps.
You'd need a new nav disc.
And yes, I agree it's way too much... But that's a usual price for a nav disc these days. :angry: