1. Product Overview
The AnyFar Wireless CarPlay Android Auto Retrofit Decoder Box Kit is designed to seamlessly integrate modern smartphone connectivity into your BMW's factory infotainment system. This professional decoder box adds full wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, supporting a wide range of BMW systems (CIC, NBT, EVO, MGU/ID5/ID6/ID7) and screen sizes (6.5”, 8.8”, 10.25”, 12.3”). It ensures perfect OEM integration while preserving all original controls, premium audio, and the signature BMW driving experience.
Figure 1: AnyFar Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto Decoder Box overview.
2. Key Features
- Dual Wireless & Wired Connectivity: Enables both wireless and wired CarPlay & Android Auto via stable 2.4G/5.8G WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0.
- Perfect OEM Integration: Retains your original iDrive controller, steering wheel buttons, voice commands (“Hey Siri”), and factory screen interface.
- Enhanced Audio with DSP: Built-in Digital Signal Processor (DSP) with a fully adjustable equalizer optimizes your factory Harman Kardon or standard audio system.
- Camera & Parking Aid Ready: Two RCA inputs support connection of a rearview camera or advanced HD 360° panoramic system with dynamic parking guides.
- Live Smart Navigation: Access real-time traffic on Apple Maps, Google Maps, or Waze directly on your BMW's display.
- Plug & Play Installation: Non-destructive setup for all compatible systems. No wire cutting or coding required. Switch instantly between interfaces.
Figure 2: Key features of the Wireless CarPlay Smart Module.
3. Compatibility & System Selection Guide
This product listing covers decoder boxes for three core BMW infotainment generations. Please identify your vehicle's system to ensure compatibility. Your BMW must have a factory wired CarPlay or Android Auto capable system for this adapter to convert it to wireless.
3.1. BMW CIC System
- Screen Sizes: 6.5”, 8.8”, 10.25”
- Typical Model Years: Older models (e.g., E-Series 2008-2012)
Figure 3: Suitable BMW models for CIC system (2008-2012).
Figure 4: Check your original car radio homescreen menu and confirm 4-pin LVDS port for CIC system.
3.2. BMW NBT (ID4) System
- Screen Sizes: 6.5”, 8.8”, 10.25”
- Typical Model Years: Mid-generation models (e.g., F-Series 2012-2016)
Figure 5: Suitable BMW models for NBT/EVO system (2013-2016).
Figure 6: Check your original car radio homescreen menu and confirm 6-pin LVDS port for NBT system.
3.3. BMW EVO (ID5/ID6) & MGU (ID7) Systems
- Screen Sizes: 6.5”, 8.8”, 10.25”, 12.3”
- Typical Model Years: 2016 – 2024 (varies by model)
- Compatible Models (Examples):
- 1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8 Series (F & G chassis)
- X1/X2/X3/X4/X5/X6/X7 (F & G chassis)
- Z4, i3, i8, iX3
- M Models (M3/M4/M5)
- MINI (F56 with EVO system)
Important: System identification is crucial. Please contact our support team with a photo of your BMW's center console and iDrive screen to confirm your exact system type (CIC, NBT, EVO, MGU) before purchasing or attempting installation.
4. Package Contents
The package includes the following core components, specific to your chosen BMW system (CIC, NBT, or EVO/MGU):
- 1 x BMW CarPlay Decoder Box
- 1 x Power Harness
- 1-2 x LVDS Cables (IN/OUT as required)
- 1 x USB Cable
- 1 x WiFi Antenna (for wireless systems)
- 1 x User Manual
- 1 x External MIC (optional, may vary by kit)
- 1 x RCA/USB cable (optional, may vary by kit)
Figure 7: Example of CIC System Accessories.
Figure 8: Decoder box dimensions (152mm x 102mm x 30mm) and included cables.
5. Installation Guide
The AnyFar Decoder Box is designed for plug-and-play installation without cutting wires or modifying factory settings. However, professional installation is highly recommended for optimal performance and a clean finish.
5.1. Pre-Installation Checklist
- Confirm your BMW infotainment system type (CIC, NBT, EVO, MGU).
- Ensure you have all components listed in the package contents.
- Gather necessary tools (e.g., trim removal tools, screwdrivers).
- Read through the entire installation guide before starting.
5.2. General Installation Steps
- Power Off Vehicle: Turn off your vehicle and disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery to prevent electrical issues.
- Access Head Unit/Screen: Carefully remove the dashboard trim panels and the OEM screen/head unit to gain access to the rear connections. Refer to your BMW's service manual for specific trim removal instructions.
- Connect Power Harness: Connect the provided power harness to the vehicle's main power connector. This harness will typically have pass-through connectors to retain original functionality.
- Connect LVDS Cables:
- Disconnect the original LVDS cable from the back of your OEM screen.
- Connect the provided LVDS IN cable from the decoder box to the OEM screen's LVDS port.
- Connect the original LVDS cable to the provided LVDS OUT cable, and then connect the LVDS OUT cable to the decoder box.
- Connect USB Cable: Plug the USB cable into the decoder box. This port can be used for wired CarPlay/Android Auto or USB media playback. Route the other end to a convenient location (e.g., glove box).
- Connect External MIC (Optional): If using an external microphone for improved voice command performance, connect it to the 'MIC IN' port on the decoder box and route it to a suitable location in the cabin.
- Connect WiFi Antenna: Attach the WiFi antenna to the designated port on the decoder box. Ensure it is positioned for optimal signal reception.
- Connect Camera Inputs (Optional): If installing a rearview or 360-degree camera, connect the video output from the camera to the 'Rear View CVBS' or 'Front View CVBS' RCA inputs on the decoder box.
- Route Cables & Secure Box: Neatly route all cables to avoid pinching or interference. Secure the decoder box in a safe, accessible location behind the dashboard, ensuring it does not obstruct any moving parts or air vents.
- Reassemble & Test: Carefully reassemble all dashboard components. Reconnect the car battery. Turn on the ignition and test all functions of the original system and the newly installed CarPlay/Android Auto system.
Figure 9: Detailed wiring diagram for the decoder box, showing connections to OEM screen, head unit, power, MIC, USB, and camera inputs.
6. Operation
6.1. Switching Between Systems
The decoder box allows for a one-key switch between your original BMW infotainment system and the CarPlay/Android Auto interface. This is typically done by pressing and holding a specific button on your iDrive controller (e.g., 'MENU' or 'HOME') or a steering wheel button. Refer to the included user manual for your specific system's switching method.
Figure 10: Seamless switching between original BMW system and CarPlay/Android Auto.
6.2. Controls
The system retains full functionality of your original BMW controls:
- iDrive Controller: Use the original car mouse knob for navigation and selection within CarPlay/Android Auto.
- Steering Wheel Buttons: Control volume, track skipping, and activate voice commands directly from your steering wheel.
- Voice Control: Utilize voice commands like “Hey Siri” for hands-free operation of navigation, calls, and music.
Figure 11: Operation using original car mouse knob and steering wheel controls.
6.3. CarPlay Functionality
Connect your iPhone wirelessly or via USB to access Apple CarPlay. Enjoy features such as:
- Navigation: Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze with real-time traffic.
- Music & Podcasts: Stream from Apple Music, Spotify, Podcasts, and more.
- Communication: Make calls, send messages, and listen to voicemails.
- Voice Assistant: Use “Hey Siri” for hands-free control.
Figure 12: Apple CarPlay interface.
Figure 13: Using voice commands with CarPlay.
6.4. Android Auto Functionality
Connect your Android phone wirelessly or via USB to access Android Auto. Features include:
- Navigation: Google Maps, Waze with real-time traffic.
- Music & Media: Play music from Spotify, YouTube Music, and other apps.
- Communication: Make calls and send messages using voice commands.
- Voice Assistant: Access Google Assistant for hands-free control.
Figure 14: Android Auto interface.
6.5. Other Features
- Mirror Link: Mirror your smartphone screen directly to the car display for viewing videos or other content.
- USB Play: Play videos and music directly from a USB drive connected to the decoder box.
- Camera Function: Supports factory original reverse camera and parking radar. Also supports aftermarket reverse cameras and 360-degree camera systems with dynamic parking guidelines.
Figure 15: Mirror Link functionality.
Figure 16: Camera function displaying reverse view with parking radar.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Display / Black Screen:
- Check all LVDS cable connections to ensure they are securely seated.
- Verify the power harness is correctly connected and receiving power.
- Ensure the correct input source is selected on your BMW's screen (switch to CarPlay/Android Auto mode).
- No Audio:
- Confirm your car's AUX input is selected as the audio source. The decoder box typically routes audio through the AUX input.
- Check the volume levels on both your phone and the car's infotainment system.
- Ensure all audio cables (if applicable) are correctly connected.
- CarPlay/Android Auto Not Connecting (Wireless):
- Ensure your phone's Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled.
- Forget the device from your phone's Bluetooth settings and try pairing again.
- Restart both your phone and the car's infotainment system.
- Check the WiFi antenna connection on the decoder box.
- Controls Not Working:
- Verify all wiring connections, especially the CAN bus wires in the power harness, which transmit control signals.
- Ensure the decoder box is correctly configured for your specific BMW system.
- Intermittent Connection:
- Check for loose cable connections.
- Ensure the WiFi antenna is securely attached and not obstructed.
- Minimize other wireless interference sources near the vehicle.
If problems persist after following these steps, please contact customer support for further assistance.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | ANYFAR |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| System Compatibility | BMW CIC, NBT, EVO, MGU (ID5, ID6, ID7) |
| Installation Type | Plug-and-play, no cutting wires or modifying factory settings |
| Control Retention | Retains OEM screen, rotary controller, full steering wheel voice control compatibility |
| Connectivity | Wireless & Wired CarPlay/Android Auto (2.4G/5.8G WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0) |
| Audio Enhancement | Built-in DSP with adjustable equalizer |
| Camera Support | Factory reverse camera, parking radar, aftermarket reverse/360 camera |
| Approximate Dimensions (L x W x H) | 25-27 cm x 8-17 cm (Decoder Box: 152mm x 102mm x 30mm) |
| Approximate Weight | 900g – 1300g |
9. Maintenance
The AnyFar Decoder Box is designed for minimal maintenance. Keep the unit free from dust and moisture. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. Periodically check cable connections to ensure they remain secure, especially after any work is done on the vehicle's interior.
10. Warranty & Support
This product includes a standard 18-month product warranty. For any technical support, warranty claims, or assistance with system identification, please contact our customer support team. Providing a photo of your BMW's center console and iDrive screen can help expedite support inquiries.
11. User Tips
- Confirm Your System: Always double-check your BMW's infotainment system type (CIC, NBT, EVO, MGU) and LVDS port (4-pin or 6-pin) before installation to ensure you have the correct decoder box version.
- Professional Installation: While designed for plug-and-play, professional installation is highly recommended to ensure proper wiring, avoid damage to vehicle components, and achieve a clean, factory-like finish.
- Audio Source: Remember to switch your BMW's audio source to AUX to hear sound from CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Firmware Updates: Check the manufacturer's website periodically for any available firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with the latest smartphone operating systems.
