The BMW Display Key, featuring a fully-functional touch screen, often sparks debate: is it just a flashy gadget or a genuinely helpful tool? As someone who uses both the Touch Screen Key Fob and remote services via the traditional app daily, I’m here to offer my personal experience and shed light on whether this piece of tech is fancy, useless, or somewhere in between.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: yes, the BMW touch screen key fob is undeniably fancy. Its sleek design and glass-like touch always draw attention. Whether it’s sitting on my desk or catching eyes at a restaurant, it’s a conversation starter. While aesthetics aren’t everything, this key fob certainly adds a touch of premium feel to the BMW ownership experience.
However, beyond the looks, the real question is about utility. For me, the primary advantage of the touch screen key fob lies in its speed and convenience for accessing vehicle status and remote functions.
Faster Access to Vehicle Status and Pre-Conditioning
While the My BMW app offers similar functionalities, the touch screen key fob provides significantly faster access, especially when you’re in a hurry. Unlocking my iPhone, navigating to the app, waiting for it to load, and then selecting the desired function (like pre-conditioning the car) can take upwards of 7-10 seconds. In contrast, the touch screen key fob accomplishes the same task in a mere 2-3 seconds with a quick swipe and tap. This speed advantage is a game-changer when you’re rushing to work or an appointment and want to quickly check if doors are locked or get the AC running before you even reach your car.
The Quickest Way to Adjust Vehicle Height Remotely
Another key benefit, and perhaps a less commonly known feature, is the ability to remotely adjust the vehicle’s height. As a parent and someone who often has family members with varying mobility needs, this feature is invaluable. Lowering the car’s height and turning on the AC remotely, all before anyone gets in, makes vehicle access much easier and more comfortable. While the app allows for remote AC activation, it lacks the vehicle height adjustment feature altogether. Even if the app were to include this function, the sequential nature of sending commands (unlock, AC, height adjust) would make the process significantly slower and less practical compared to the touch screen key fob’s near-instant response. Trying to perform these three actions via the app could easily take 40 seconds or more, making it too time-consuming to be truly useful in these situations.
Pocket-Friendly Design and Feel
Despite initial perceptions, the touch screen key fob is surprisingly pocket-friendly. In my experience, it feels even sleeker and lighter than the standard BMW key. Its relatively thin profile and smooth, glass-like surface slide easily into pockets without feeling bulky or cumbersome. While it might appear slightly larger in terms of surface area compared to the standard key, its three-dimensional design actually occupies less volume and feels more streamlined overall.
Battery Life and Charging
Concerns about battery life are understandable with a touch screen device. However, the BMW touch screen key fob boasts impressive battery performance. On standby, without charging, it lasts for approximately 3.5 weeks. Even when the battery is fully depleted, it still functions as a traditional key, retaining all physical button functionalities – you simply lose the touch screen features until recharged. Charging is convenient and versatile, supporting both wireless charging (compatible with many modern phone chargers) and a micro USB cable. With wireless charging pads becoming increasingly common in homes and cars, keeping the key fob charged is effortless.
In conclusion, the BMW touch screen key fob is more than just a fancy accessory. For me, it’s a genuinely useful tool that offers faster access to essential vehicle functions, particularly remote height adjustment and pre-conditioning. Its sleek design, comfortable pocket feel, and practical battery life further enhance its appeal. While the My BMW app provides similar functionalities, the speed and immediacy of the touch screen key fob make it a worthwhile upgrade for those who value convenience and efficiency in their daily interactions with their vehicle.
