Folks I need your knowledge re using Bluetooth for audio streaming on the Columbus.

 

I've been in cars where the Bluetooth audio also gives track info and basic navigation (i.e. Pause, skip track forward or backward), but others only play and anything else has to be done of the device itself.

 

Can someone tell me what the the Bluetooth connectivity on the Columbus is like in the FL version with either an Apple or Samsung device.

 

I've got both available as audio sources and I'm trying to decide if the BT will be enough or if it's worth stumping up for the MDI?

 

Alternatively, given the cost, is it worth considering a Gateway 100 or 300 instead?

Edited 10 May, 201412 yr by Twelvebears

Works fine for me with iPhone 5 when listening to iTunes. Just go to media and hit the Bluetooth symbol. Streams no problem and can pause and go forward and back on tracks from both Columbus screen and from steering wheel. It's responsive enough for me and quality is good. Don't have a whole lot of experience with android as I got rid of my last galaxy out of sheer frustration!

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If all you want is connectivity and control of your music player, get the MDI. Easier to install, more control and organisation of music (e.g. podcasts) and charges the device. Oh. And much easier to retrofit and slightly cheaper.

 

If making phone calls is what you really want, then it will have to be a BT module fitted.

 

I have a Columbus and BT (both retro-fitted) and get audio streaming from an iPhone 4s and also have basic ability to control the music selection (forward & backwards track skip, play / pause and that is about it).

 

Eddie_NL has a MDI module and loom available on here for just over £100 (well, it was last time I looked). All you need on top of that is a plastic trim cover for about £5 from the dealer and an MDI mounting bracket (about £15 if you can source one) you'll have almost full OE MDI output in the glovebox (correct location) or the dash top box.

Coming back to the BT module, it depends what version of module is fitted. I've retrofitted mine 3C8 035 730A and then change it ot 3C8 035 730D. Dhe difference is ability to operate BT device from steering wheel and as well using internal car WiFi network, when connected via rSAP mode.

My Moto G connected to the BT in the columbus & extracted the phonebook with no problem, ( its a FL Yeti)

 

Also managed to stream music from phone without issue .