Well at least it works perfectly with the MHI Bluetooth interface module (part# B6 787 5878) in my ML63.
The phone pairs instantly with the car every time I get in and start up, and even the iPhone's contact list is fully uploaded. Even voice commands to dial contacts that I've trained it for works. I'm happy to report that bluetooth functionality works flawlessly and even the reception is better than my previous phone (Motorola PEBL) when I keep it in my pocket.
I also have the factory iPod interface in my ML and when I plug the iPhone to that cable, it works exactly like my regular iPod nano and allows selection of songs/playlists/etc from the steering wheel controls and displays song info on the in-dash multifunction display. It charges my iPhone like it does my iPod as well. Sweet! I don't even have to buy a car charger for my new phone. The only very minor issue is that when I plug the iPhone in to the MB iPod interface, the iPhone pops up a message about how I've just connected an "unapproved accessory" and asked me if I wanted to set the iPhone to "airplane mode" to avoid possible radio interference. I just ignore this and the iPhone continues to function as a phone and an iPod just fine without any apparent audio interference.
To my surprise, when I receive a call on the iPhone while I'm playing music from it as connected via the interface, both ends actually transition into the phone call without a hitch: the MB COMAND system mutes the radio, activates the bluetooth connection with the iPhone, and in turn, the iPhone pauses the song it was currently playing and goes into phone mode. Once I'm finished with my call, the COMAND automatically switches back to the iPod interface and the iPhone continues playing the song from where it left off. Neither system missed a beat. Dual functionality and dual interface between one car and one handheld device with seamless switching of functions. Effing brilliant! I'm actually shocked by how well it works.
I wish I could say the same for my Audi. Although I can pair the iPhone just fine with the RS4, the connection is mysteriously inconsistent. Perhaps if Steve Jobs drove an Audi this wouldn't be the case
