GoPro Camera Integration Coming For BMW, MINI Models

BMW has announced a new partnership with GoPro, the action-focused camera maker of choice for extreme sports nuts around the world.

From July, 2012 model-year and later BMW and MINI models equipped with the BMW Apps and MINI Connected systems will be upgraded to include connectivity with selected GoPro cameras.

Compatible with wifi-capable GoPro Hero3+ and later camera models, the system will allow the GoPro iPhone app to connect with the car, enabling control of the camera from the car’s in-dash display.

The display will include a menu of options down the left side of the screen, while a near real-time display of the camera’s vision will be shown in the main viewing space.

The system will offer control of six pre-set camera modes: Leisure Drive Facing Out, Night Driving, Sport Drive Facing Out, Drive Camera Facing In, Winding Road Time-lapse, and Straight Road Time-lapse.

A number of functions will also be displayed on screen, including elapsed recording time, battery life, and wifi signal strength.

"GoPro is a natural fit for BMW enthusiast drivers," said Phil Johnston, Head of BMW Group AppCenter USA. "The power and flexibility of the BMW group App Integration Platform coupled with GoPro's advanced camera technology brings new, safe, and engaging experiences to the enthusiasts that were previously not possible."

No word yet on this function's availability in the Australian market. 

The new partnership can be seen as a response to a new feature in Chevrolet’s 2015 Corvette: Performance Data Recorder, which lets the driver record video and audio, including data from vehicle functions and telemetry.

Watch for this technology to become the latest fad in sports cars.

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