Discover the BM6: a plug-and-play that promises OEM integration in BMW with CarPlay and Android Auto

Complete review of the Aoocci BM6: BMW integration, 6-inch screen, access to cell phone apps, and a price under £300. Is it worth buying?

The Aoocci BM6 arrives as a quick-install smart hub, designed for BMW motorcycles that use the original navigation mount. It is a wireless unit that combines Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatically connecting to the smartphone after setup and offering easy access to navigation, music, and communication.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: quick mounting, direct access to cell phone apps, and integration with the BMW ecosystem.
• Cons: screen limitations, possible intermittent failure with TPMS sensors, and customer support that could improve.

Price and Value for Money

At just under £300, the BM6 positions itself as a much cheaper option than the BMW Navigator ConnectedRide. The author already uses a Garmin Navigator VI and points out that, despite being a dedicated device, the BM6 delivers integration with the bike's controls, which benefits those seeking convenience without giving up the screen and interaction with the vehicle.

Mounting on the BMW

Installation is simple: the BM6 fits into the OEM navigation mount and can be locked onto the bike frame, providing more security during fuel stops.

Features and Screen

• 6-inch screen with 1440x720 resolution, IPS technology for vivid colors and good viewing angles
• 800 nits brightness with optional auto-dimming
• No internal navigation; uses smartphone navigation apps via CarPlay/Android Auto
• Access to apps like Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, and others

A highlight is the display of Calimoto via CarPlay, which makes it easy to view routes directly on the screen. Editor's note: Calimoto is only available on CarPlay; Android Auto was not available at the time of the review.

For music, the experience with Spotify, Amazon Music, and Plex has been stable, contrasting with the navigation of the Navigator VI, which experienced freezes. During testing, there were some moments of buffering on Spotify in areas with weak signal, but they were rare and short-lived.

Motorcycle Integration

The BM6 reads data from the BMW CANbus, allowing it to display information such as turn indicator, temperature, gear position, tire pressure, and lean angle. In some situations, there was a loss of connection with TPMS sensors, which can be purchased optionally for an additional £12. If the BMW does not have TPMS, the feature remains available only with compatible sensors.

There are also optional extras such as front and rear cameras for about £30, although the connection method and functionality are not entirely clear.

Display and Sensitivity

The screen is generally clear and legible. In bright environments, especially in the sun, it can be difficult to read the details; adjusting the mounting angle helps. The Automatic Brightness Limit feature prevents subsequent manual adjustment, which may displease those who prefer total control. Even with gloves, the touch responds well, and when necessary, the Wonderwheel can be used for navigation.

Setup and Updates

Setup is simple: connect to the mount, turn on the bike, and the BM6 starts working immediately. Pairing with the phone is quick. A firmware note advises against updating if the device is V1.0, as V2.0 is intended for units that already shipped with that version. In case of doubt, the BikeClub specialist team can help.

Water Resistance

The BM6 is advertised as IP67, meaning it is dust-tight and protected against immersion in water. In real use, the display might register minor glitches if water is directed straight at it, but in daily use, the device has proven stable in the wet conditions of riding. A design with a slight ridge on the upper edge helps prevent water from accumulating on the screen.

Accuracy and Navigation

With the phone stored away, the navigation performance with Waze and Calimoto has been solid. Navigation depends on the quality of the phone's connection, just as it does with other CarPlay/Android Auto head units. CarPlay offers split-screen viewing for some apps, while Calimoto can present routes with navigation prompts on the screen.

Power Supply

The BM6 has no internal battery; it is powered by the bike's electrical system, meaning it does not work off the motorcycle. Performance depends on the phone's charge; keeping the phone charged is essential to avoid losing navigation, music, or calls. For long trips, it is recommended to bring an external power source as a backup.

Customer Support

Although the manufacturer does not offer easily accessible direct support, there have been reports of delayed responses in a previous review involving another model. The BM6 comes with a BMW-compatible mount already fixed to the rear, providing a more elegant integration.

Alternatives to the BM6

• Innovv N2 BMW Smart Display — £258
• Chigee AIO-6 Max — £449.95
• Carpe Iter Caretta — around £800
• Garmin XT2 — £529.99
• Your phone on the bars — around £100
• Beeline Moto II — £179.99

Verdict

The BM6 was pleasing due to its robust construction, clear screen readability, and intuitive integration with the original BMW system. The ability to access cell phone apps and view bike data on the screen is a significant advantage over keeping the phone on the handlebars. Compared to the Navigator, the BM6 is considered the more attractive option by the reviewer.

What is your choice for motorcycle trips: BM6 or a dedicated navigator? Share your opinion in the comments and tell us what your ideal setup would be.