Thought I would spread the word that this upgrade from MB is available and it integrates into the existing non-MM setup.

Universal Media Interface (UMI)

UMI is a multifunctional navigation system and entertainment center available as a Standard Audio System upgrade for most MY08 and MY09 C-Class vehicle. Together UMI’s map navigation, with free real-time traffic for life, and in-vehicle music integration allows you to keep your finger on your music streams and your commute routes — all accessed simply and conveniently through integrated steering wheel controls or in the center console

Man, I paid for MM with no traffic reporting, and they offer it for non-MM upgrades?

Where do I get it and how much????

I just received an email today from MBUSA, all it says is: Please call or visit your authorized Mercedes-Benz Dealer today. To purchase select automotive and lifestyle accessories call 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES (1-800-367-6372) or visit www.accessories.mbusa.com. I looked on the website but didn't see anything yet.

My 2008 does not have traffic info, but I have all possible packages installed. When this feature was released? Does 2009 support it?

That's all I know, just received the email today.

I have a C300 with non MM, can I bring it back to Mercedes to upgrade my speakers to Harmon Kardon? I dont need the Nav or 6 disc changer, I'm only intersted in the Harmon Kardon speakers, is it possible? Or does anyone have Harmon Kardon speaker from the C300, C350, or C63 for sale? I will pay cash for it. Thanks.

Real time traffic, thats nice and once again Thanks Meredes Benz

If the price is anywhere near reasonable, I am certainly in!

MB reasonable

I was thinking an upgrade like this would be at minimum over $1K and that's only a guess. This looks like the type of upgrade that you would need to sit down and talk to a salesman in the showroom to arrange.

This "real time" traffic stuff relies on sensors, cameras and data maintained by the state/city department of transportation. Around the NY metro area at least, it doesn't even work well enough to allow the road mounted "message" signs to flash anything except "BUCKLE UP FOR SAFETY".

This is good news.

this is real good news im calling mb on monday

I just got my email from MB USA...wish it had more details though. I am dropping my car off Monday for my first service and will find out what I can then.

exactly what did the email say?

I think this is pretty well what the other guys have posted, but this is the cut/paste from the email. They leave it kind of vague...maybe they don't want to promise to much and then really **** the guys off with the '08s that don't qualify. I have my fingers crossed.

Universal Media Interface (UMI)

UMI is a multifunctional navigation system and entertainment center available as a Standard Audio System upgrade for most MY08 and MY09 C-Class vehicle. Together UMI’s map navigation, with free real-time traffic for life, and in-vehicle music integration allows you to keep your finger on your music streams and your commute routes — all accessed simply and conveniently through integrated steering wheel controls or in the center console.

I can smell how expensive it's going to be from here.

My WAG is at least $1600 plus 2.5hrs book time to install at $120/hr labor rate. That's if the shark-fin is actually the same physical hardware between factory navi and non-navi. If it requires a new shark-fin and wiring I'll guess that adds another >$800 to the price tag.

From news reports:
"Mercedes-Benz will be equipping European and U.S. delivered C-class models early next year with its Universal Media Interface (UMI), designed for connecting mobile entertainment and communication devices such as a cell phone or MP3 music player. Inside the glovebox of cars equipped with the UMI are a USB port, SD card-reader and integrated navigation system.

To activate the various multimedia functions, all the driver has to do is press the ‘AUX’ button on the car radio. The rotary controller on the centre console can then be used to navigate the onscreen menus and select the required functions.

Once connected with the mobile devices, the driver can then use the system to scroll through a MP3 player’s song list or use it to answer and hang up calls from their mobile phone.

The UMI can also be retrofitted into some older Mercedes models, reports TRG, and you can bet it will soon filter across to more cars within the lineup in coming years."



Also, as an FYI, looks like we might get rear seat entertainment

I was quoted $1800 including labor.

Just goes to prove that whatever you think its going to cost, double it.

Wonder what they want for the wheels they were pitching in the same email.

For basically software...I will keep my Nuvi or just use my cell phone for navi in a pinch...seeing as it likely won't work with an iphone anyhow.

And it appears that this interface wont support the voice controll on the steering wheel, which is one of the best features of the MM package. If this is so, that navi is basically uselss as it will take forever to input an address without touchscreen or voice command, so you are buying a very expensive Ipod and usb interface.

Does anyone knows if it will support video in (for a backup camera)? They show a digital camera in the glove compartment on the pics.

The $1800 quote sounds high. £630 for the parts in UK, £800 installed at an MB shop:
http://mbclub.co.uk/forums/showpost....2&postcount=18

I guess you never heard of the US dollar conversion. Your 1430=$1789 US (1800)
I don't know if people are still interested, but an alternative is the car-tv unit. I was in contact with the manufacturer and they quoted me $200+s/h for the unit with the iPhone adapter. Install is Plug-n-play. You still have to add a GPS unit but it is still less $. Although Mercedes parts are Mercedes parts.

Is that 630GBP for parts and 170GBP for labor for a total of 800GBP?
On another note, do US keyboards have the British Pound symbol??