[doc.manhattan]

Hi,

I recently retrofitted a CIC in my car, an '08 E93 335i. Next is the Combox and I'm a bit confused after visiting RealOEM. Unfortunately, googling hasn't helped.

As I understand there are two main types of Combox units: Telematics and Media where Media enables BT, internet, etc. and Telematics is Media + BMW Assist. However there's also a Telematics "GPS" unit.
Q: How does that differentiate from the normal Telematics unit?
A: It seems like the GPS unit was for cars with Assist but no I-Drive.

Also it seems like in March of 2011 BMW discontinued the first run of the unit and replaced it with units with different part numbers. E.g. Combox Media 9248178 up to 3/2011 and after that it's Combox Media 9257160.
Q: Are there any real differences between them apart from part numbers or can I safely buy either and fit them in my car?

There are also completely different part numbers for Combox units depending on the location, EU or USA. I assume it might play some role in the BMW Assist functionality for Telematics units - correct me if I'm wrong.
Q: Is it safe to, for example, buy a Media unit from a US-spec car and get it properly working in my EU car or should I keep looking for a unit from an EU-spec car?

Thank you all in advance

[ptpending]

you will not get telematics on combox if it was not installed on your car from factory
otherwise you can get any of them, because you'll get only combox media functionality
avoid combox for F-series, they have white 26-pin connector instead of black

[glachhman]

you want BN2000