[LEDZEP]

I recall Mr. Spira singing the praises of the optional convenience plan available for BMW Assist, and sometimes I consider trying it for a year. One of the features that made me feel it might be worthwhile is the ability to have them find a location and send the data directly to your Nav system. This would be great when on the road and looking for a Starbucks, etc.

However, I just received my letter from Assist describing this package, and there are several instances where the Concierge Button is mentioned. They also specifically mention the SOS button, so I assume they are not one and the same.

Under the section for Directions, it states:

"On suitably equipped 2007 models, you can also have the destination and phone number sent to your nagivation system and Bluetooth linked cell phone if you push the Concierge button."

I'm pretty sure I have one button, and one button only. Sounds like if I was a sucker and paid $200 for this, I wouldn't be able to use that feature. So what special models get the extra button? My MB C class had that in 2002...

[bmw0perat0r]

The SoS button and the concierge button are one in the same. You press it and the car calls the BMW center ...then you ask for help. The salesman at the dealership went through a setup for me before I left the lot...pressed the button, called the bmw center...went through some questions. Sort of a 411 service, they do it all.

[X5FX]

correct, they are both the same button...pretty cool feature, especially considering how awkward the POI search is.

One other feature that might help justify the cost;
Emergency calling- you can use the SOS button to make a normal phone call to anyone for any reason (ie forgot your cell). You can only use this 2x per year though.

[LEDZEP]

I thought it was 4 or 5 times per year for the personal calls.

[X5FX]

correct 4x per year, but only 5 minute limit each:


Critical Calling
Communication in a pinch.

Perhaps you forgot your mobile phone or its battery is discharged and you urgently need to speak to a family member or colleague. Don't worry! Critical Calling allows you to make up to four operator-assisted calls per year from your driver's seat. Simply push your SOS button to speak with a BMW Assist response specialist, who will then connect you to your requested party for up to five minutes.

here are all the details:
http://www.bmwusa.com/NR/rdonlyres/A...sist_Pages.pdf

[LEDZEP]

Yes, actually I understand the plan features well, I was just wondering about the "concierge button" language in the description. It would be just like BMW to tell me after I pay them $199 "oh, sorry - your vehicle is not equipped with a concierge button and those features are not available".

[335inSC]

Actually... the hard button in the vehicle (the orange one near the sunroof) is NOT the same as the so-called "concierge button"

If you connect to BMW Assist by pushing the orange button they will not be able to download your destination to your vehicle. I know this for a fact - I've personally experienced it.

In order to use that service you must initiate contact through the "concierge button" which is in the iDrive menu under communications somewhere (can't remember exactly where).

If you hit the orange button then they CAN transfer you to the concierge service but the service will NOT be able to download the destination for you unless you come to them through the "concierge button"

By the way - the concierge service is VERY much worth it in my opinion. Just do a search for post by me and you'll see a few that go into detail on how it's benefited me.