The Multi Media Interface (MMI) system is an in-car user interface media system developed by Audi, and was launched at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show on the Audi Avantissimo concept car. Production MMI was introduced in the second generation Audi A8 D3 in late 2002 and implemented in majority of its latest series of automobiles.
Concept
MMI consists of a single integrated interface, which controls a variety of devices and functions of the car. The system consists of the MMI terminal and the MMI display screen.
The central element of the MMI terminal is the control dial. This dial can be rotated to navigate up and down through menus, and pressed to activate a selected highlighted function. Starting with the MMI 3G system, an integrated joystick in the main control dial can be used to (for example) navigate the map. Depending on the MMI generation and configuration, four to eight function buttons surround the control dial, which launch the various features. The MMI screen is a five-inch monochrome black-and-red or seven-inch 16:9 full-colour display, depending on the variation of MMI fitted in the car. MMI uses Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) technology to interconnect the various systems. Harman Becker Automotive Systems manufactures the MMI system, utilizing QNX Neutrino's Real Time Operating System (RTOS) software.
Functions
MMI operates in car entertainment components, car electronics, and other functions. Depending on the actual car model, along with which version was specified (MMI Basic, MMI High, etc.), only some, and not all functions will be applicable or available. Satellite navigation, including traffic management (TMC) Radio tuner Media sources (CD changer, Audi Music Interface, aux audio port, TV tuner, two external AV sources) Telephone and directory Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, climate control, and seat heating Car setup (e.g. central locking and convenience function (coming home/leaving home, power sunroof and windows) options, global audio settings, suspension settings, interior lighting, Audi Side Assist settings etc.) Rear view camera and parking sensors Driver information (e.g. fuel economy statistics (often encompassed by "trip computer" functions), battery level, oil level, tire-pressure monitoring, etc.) User manual (full on-board car user manual, displayed on screen) Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for 2014 and later model.
Cars
Audi models for which MMI is available:
MMI Generation RNS-E
Certain cars have a "pseudo" type of MMI. These are the Audi A3 (8P), A4 (B6 and B7), A6 (C5), TT (8J), the R8, SEAT Exeo, and Lamborghini Gallardo - when fitted with the RNS-E DVD-based "Audi Navigation Plus" system. While appearing to be a similar layout, and operating similarly, these two systems are very different, are unable to share mapping disks or software, and are not able to control non-ICE functions (such as climate, convenience or suspension settings).
On members of the B8 family of vehicles (the A4 (Typ 8K), A5 (Typ 8T), and Q5 (Typ 8R)) without full navigation capability, Audi does not describe this infotainment system as MMI. However, an MMI-esque control dial and function keys is provided on the radio/CD head unit.
MMI Generations 2G through 3G+
The MMI system has been improved over the years and now features internet connectivity through MMI Connect introduced in recent models.
Issues
While seemingly intuitive and user-friendly, MMI can be difficult to operate when driving. Attempts have been made to improve access: the MMI 3G features a new Joystick on the central knob to make it easier to, for example, input a destination using the navigation map. However, the issues remain. The Audi Q5's MMI infotainment control system is difficult to navigate, partly due to the location of its controls low down on the center console.