BMW details ConnectedDrive updates for U.S. [Video]

BMW has detailed an updated version of its ConnectedDrive infotainment system for the United States just one day after the German automaker made a similar announcement for the European market.

Starting with the 2014 model year, nearly every BMW model sold in the United States will come equipped with version 4.2 of BMW's iDrive. The latest version of iDrive boasts a number of improvements, including a new touch pad interface and compatibility with Apple's Siri and Samsung's Svoice voice control functions.

BMW will expand its app selection this year with such services as Audible, TuneIn, Rhapsody and Glympse.

Most 2014 BMW models will also come standard with 10 years of eCall with enhanced Automatic Collision Notification and BMW Teleservice.

BMW navigation and BMW Online – which will access the internet via a 3G SIM card installed in the vehicle – will be made standard on all 2014 5-, 6- and 7-Series cars as well as 2014 X5 and X6 Sports Activity Vehicles. The systems will be optional on lesser BMW models.

Also for 2014, BMW is making Concierge service standard on all 6- and 7-Series models equipped with either a V8 or V12 engine. The Concierge service will remain a standalone option on most other BMW models.

Look for BMW's updated ConnectedDrive system to arrive in dealer showrooms in the coming weeks.