Signs that you are in CIC:

• The graphics are fairly simple, and the interface is less modern.
• iDrive rotary dial without touchpad on top
• Often found on early BMW F10, F20, F30, X1, and X3 models

CarPlay compatibility:
✔️ Compatible via a dedicated CIC CarPlay module
❌ Original BMW CarPlay not possible → module required

➤ BMW NBT (≈ 2013–2017)

The NBT system displays a more modern and better-defined interface than the CIC.

Features :

• A cleaner, smoother interface than CIC
• iDrive controller sometimes with a touch surface
• Very common on BMW F-series (F20, F30, F32, etc.)

CarPlay compatibility:
✔️ 100% compatible with a plug & play wireless CarPlay module
❌ Original CarPlay rarely present → the module remains the simplest solution

➤ BMW NBT EVO (≈ 2016–2020)

NBT EVO: the most advanced interface before the latest generations.

Features :

• Very modern interface with tiles and smooth animations
• Present on recent BMW F30 LCI, F10 LCI, X1, X3, X5 models…

CarPlay compatibility:
✔️ Fully compatible with wireless CarPlay module
✔️ Some cars have factory-installed CarPlay, often limited or not activated

2. Check compatibility in 10 seconds

You don't want to delve into BMW references? No need. Here is the fastest method:

• Step 1: Turn on the ignition and display the main menu on the screen
• Step 2: Take a photo of the screen + a photo of the iDrive controller
• Step 3: Send the two images by email

📩 Dedicated email address for BMW compatibility: contact@carplaypower.com
⏱ Response within 24 hours with the compatibility of your BMW and the appropriate solution.

3. Compatible BMW models in 2025

Our wireless CarPlay & Android Auto module is compatible with most BMWs equipped with CIC, NBT or NBT EVO.

Most BMW F-series models between 2010 and 2020 are compatible.

BMW 1 Series

F20, F21

BMW 2 Series

F22, F23, F45, F46

BMW 3 Series

F30, F31, F34

BMW 4 Series

F32, F33, F36

BMW 5 Series

F10, F11

BMW 7 Series

F01, F02

BMW X1 / X3 / X4 / X5 / X6

According to CIC / NBT / NBT EVO configuration.

👉 In 95% of cases, a BMW produced between 2010 and 2020 is compatible with our wireless CarPlay module.

4. Why choose a wireless CarPlay module rather than an original retrofit?

Wireless CarPlay: navigation, music and messages, directly on the original screen.

The tangible benefits of the CarPlay Power module

• CarPlay & Android Auto 100% wireless – no need to plug in your phone
• Original screen preserved – OEM integration, no “tuning” effect
• Steering wheel controls, PDC, reversing camera – all BMW functions are retained
• Plug & play installation – no cable cutting, clean disassembly
• Price much more affordable than an official BMW retrofit

5. Installation: what does it actually look like?

Typical installation: the screen is removed, the plug & play harness is inserted, then everything is reassembled in the same way.

The installation is reversible and requires no major modifications . On most BMW F-series models, it proceeds as follows:

• 1
  Remove the original screen using suitable plastic tools to avoid marking the plastics.
• 2
  Connect the supplied plug & play harness between the BMW system and the screen.
• 3
  Position the CarPlay module behind the screen or in the console, invisibly.
• 4
  Reassemble the screen, check that all original functions (radio, PDC, camera, etc.) are active.
• 5
  Connect your iPhone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: Wireless CarPlay starts automatically.

⏱ Average duration: 20–30 minutes
🔧 Difficulty level: 2/10 if you are comfortable with clean disassembly, otherwise we recommend an installer.

6. Conclusion: your BMW is very likely compatible

If your BMW is equipped with a CIC, NBT or NBT EVO system, you can almost certainly benefit from a module Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto while retaining the original BMW aesthetics.