MMI, or Multimedia Interface, is the name Audi gives its infotainment system, controlling everything from navigation and climate settings to entertainment and connectivity features.
Like most cutting-edge infotainment systems, Audi's MMI first appeared on the firm's flagship Audi A8 in 2002 but has since filtered down models across the range. It's evolved significantly over the years and now features cutting-edge technology across the whole range, from the A1 to the Q8 E-tron.
Why does Audi MMI exist?
The MMI system serves as a central hub for each Audi model's vehicle controls, and intergrates an array of functions into a streamlined interface. As modern cars have gotten more complex, the MMI has replaced numerous buttons with digital controls.
The latest versions have evolved to include AI integration, real-time connected services and upgraded interfaces designed to enhance usability, at least in theory.
How do I operate Audi MMI?
Excatly how you operate Audi MMI depends on which car you're in, and when it's from. The system has evolved over the years; whether for the better is a subject for debate.
This is a controversial topic for diehard Audi MMI fans because in recent years Audi has done away with the MMI system's excellent scroll wheel, which allowed you to navigate the MMI system's menus using a fixed control that sits between the front seats.
Instead, modern MMI systems have touchscreen interfaces, often with a dual-screen setup using a main infotainment display measuring up to 14.5 inches across, and a secondary digital instrument cluster, which Audi calls Virtual Cockpit. Higher end models, such as the A6 and A8, include a tactile response from the screen to improve touch accuracy – something owners have complained is a problem with using screens rather than physical buttons, especially while on the move.
All the latest Audis also come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and many models have the wireless connection that syncs to your phone as soon as you turn the car on. The most recent MMI versions have an AI-powered Audi Assistant that supports more than 800 voice commands and can integrate with ChatGPT, meaning you can control a lot of functions and ask questions without taking your eyes off the road or your hands off the wheel.
Is Audi's Virtual Cockpit standard?
Audi's Virtual Cockpit – a screen behind the steering wheel that replaces traditional dials – is now standard on most models, but may have been an option or not available at all on early cars. The entry-level cars – the Audi A1 and Q2 – feature Virtual Cockpit as an option on all models and standard on the top-of-the-range Vorsprung.
The A3, Q3 and Q4 E-tron get a 12.25-inch Virtual Cockpit as standard, with a 12.3-inch version called also available, which is standard on the higher-end cars from the A4 and Q5 upwards. Some models can also get an augmented reality (AR) head-up display that's integrated into the overall system.
Virtual Cockput Plus is an upgraded version of the system, which has a 12.3-inch screen as standard, enhanced graphics with smoother animations and more customisation options.
What functions does Audi MMI control?
MMI controls almost all the functions on your Audi.
Heading to a new destination? Then simply type or write in the post code and let the MMI guide you there safely. The latest Audi MMI systems are connected systems so, as well as guiding you to your destination, they can route around congestion and give you updates on things like fuel prices and parking availability.
This function usually requires you to sign up to a subscription, although new models come with limited access to the service for free, so you can decide whether it's worth the money or not. Bear in mind, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mean you can use your phone's connected nav, which won't cost anything other than any data charges on your phone contract.
Many Audi's have Drive Select, which you can adjust through your car's MMI screen to adjust settings like throttle sensitivity, steering weight, and suspension settings in higher-end models .
Other features like climate control and mood lighting can all be controlled through MMI. The latest cars feature an Audi App Store, which lets users download apps like Spotify, YouTube, Zoom and WhatsApp direct to the MMI.
What is Audi Phone Box?
Audi's Phone Box is a storage and wireless charging area for your phone, usually on the centre console or underneath the front-centre armrest. As well as stopping your phone sliding about when you're driving, the phone box also has access to USB and 12V plugs so you can charge your electricals without strewing cables across the cabin.
Connect your phone to the car via the Phone Box and as well as charging it, it hooks your phone up to your car's aerial for better reception when you're making calls.
Does my Audi come fitted with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Since 2020, all new Audis come fitted with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. To get it to work, all you have to do is connect your phone into the car's USB plug using its charging cable and you'll be asked to click through a quick setup process on the car's and your phone's screen. Most of the latest Audis offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which works in exactly the same way, but after an initial setup through Bluetooth you won't need to plug it in.
Once your setup, you can use many of the useful features on your phone on your car's big screen. Apps like Google Maps and Waze provide navigation, play music through apps like Spotify, and in some models of Audi allow other people to access and use the car using a virtual key that's stored on their phone.
What audio system does Audi use?
The basic sound system in your Audi improves depending on what model you go for and how old it is. On some models you'll get a six-speaker stereo as standard, while newer models have a 10-speaker system at minimum. Some models will let you upgrade that to a more powerful system with additional speakers and improved bass response.
Mid-range models, like the A4, A5, Q3 and Q5, have the option of a sound system developed with Bang & Olufsen, which has 15 speakers and a 710W amplifier. Vorsprung trim models on the A6, A7, A8, Q7 and Q8 have a 23-speaker B&O system as standard, with 1920W of output.
High-end models, such as the RS cars and top-spec E-tron models, have even more advanced systems that can deliver concert-quality sound and dynamic spatial effects.
You could watch TV on older Audi MMI systems, if you had an Audi A8 saloon with the optional Chauffeur Pack – it included a digital receiver for watching digital TV on the car's big screen. The pack also includes screens for the rear seats with a remote control. However, more modern Audi MMI systems have moved towards streaming-based entertainment, with an in-car app store where you download the likes of YouTube and Netflix.
Different people will be quoted different prices, but to find out much it will cost to renew your Audi Connect open your myAudi app, scroll down to Functions on Demand and tap Go To Shop. The available licences will be shown along with the features which they unlock. Depending on the model and age of your Audi, you may be able to purchase multiple licences giving you access to various features. Licences are available for one month or 12.
You don't need Audi Connect for navigation. However, the sat-nav won't have an internet connection without Audi Connect so it won't be able to route around traffic, check for available parking or call the emergency services if you're involved in a serious accident.
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