How do I connect and activate Android Auto in my BMW with BMW Operating System 7, 8 and 8.5?

Android Auto allows select functions of a compatible smartphone to be operated via Google Assistant voice control and via iDrive.

Depending on which BMW Operating System your vehicle has, perform the following steps.

BMW iDrive Operating System 7:

Pairing a smartphone with Android Auto

1. "COM"
2. "Mobile devices"
3. Tilt the Controller to the right.
4. "New device"
5. "Phone calls and audio" The vehicle's Bluetooth name is displayed on the control display.
6. On the mobile device, search for nearby Bluetooth devices and select the vehicle. A control number is displayed.
7. Compare the control number displayed on the control display with the control number on the display of the mobile device, and confirm that the two match.
8. "Use Android Auto"
9. If necessary, finish the setup on the mobile device. The smartphone is connected to the vehicle and displayed in the device list. 

BMW Operating System 8 and 8.5:

Android Auto can be selected via a variety of menus. On the touchscreen via the status bar in the main menu or using the display bar that is shown: 

1. "Android Auto" Via the apps menu:
2. "APPS"
3. "Android Auto"

Via the entertainment menu:

1. "Media/Radio"
2. "Android Auto"
3. The Music app of the smartphone opens. 

Operating Android Auto:

Android Auto can be used via iDrive and voice operation.

Via voice operation:

1. Press and hold the button on the steering wheel until the Google voice control is activated on the smartphone.
2. Say the commands familiar from the smartphone.