Experience with different i-Drive replacements?

[idrivea911]

I'm looking for an Android unit to replace my CIC iDrive. I don't know if it matters, but I've got S609 Nav Pro (I never use the nav), and S677 HiFi Pro DSP. Who has installed these, and did they work well? Quality? Fitment? Longevity? It looks like the options are:
1) Bremmen - $550 - https://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-8...25-cic-screen/
2) CarNaviPlayer - $470+ with options - https://www.carnaviplayer.com/bmw-1-...upgrade-p-1230
3) Xtrons - $490 - https://xtrons.com/bmw-1-series-andr...-rom-qeb1287ci

Did I miss any clear options?

I'd love to get wireless AndroidAuto, but I think all 3 of these are wired. The Xtrons says explicitly that it maintains stock iDrive functionality, not sure about the other 2. CarNaviPlayer offers drop-in add-ons for Reverse camera and OBDII, both of which I'd like.

[idrivea911]

Anyone have any thoughts? I thought there would be some testimonials, someone must have bought these things for them to still exist?

[Blau]

Not a testimonial per se, but I would just use the factory unit. Anything you buy now will be outdated and not function as well as you're built-in idrive. And no matter what, they all look terrible and out of place. I don't think that this platform lends itself well to non-factory electronics either.

Your mileage may vary, but you are risking increase in creeks and a system that will undoubtedly need to be changed again, not that long from now.

[idrivea911]

Originally Posted by Blau

Not a testimonial per se, but I would just use the factory unit. Anything you buy now will be outdated and not function as well as you're built-in idrive. And no matter what, they all look terrible and out of place. I don't think that this platform lends itself well to non-factory electronics either.

Your mileage may vary, but you are risking increase in creeks and a system that will undoubtedly need to be changed again, not that long from now.

That's a depressing but probably accurate sentiment. The i-drive is just SO dated and terrible. I tried so hard to find a car without it, but the price was right for the car I bought 🤷*♂️