apple: Attaching iPhones to motorcycles: Why Apple and BMW ‘can’t agree’

NEW DELHI: Auto maker BMW has released a smartphone mount for its motorcycles that seemingly is not in sync with Apple‘s recommendations. Called ConnectedRide Cradle, it is a universal phone mount that can connect motorbikes with phone. The BMW ConnectedRide Cradle allows smartphone’s to display control and real-time information about the bike through its Multi-Controller function.
According to Apple, such mounts may be an invitation to harm your smartphone. In a support note published on its website, Apple warns users that exposure to vibrations, like those generated by high-powered motorcycle engines, may impact iPhone cameras. “Exposing your iPhone to high amplitude vibrations within certain frequency ranges, specifically those generated by high-power motorcycle engines, can degrade the performance of the camera system,” says Apple in its support document.
“High-power or high-volume motorcycle engines generate intense high-amplitude vibrations, which are transmitted through the chassis and handlebars. It is not recommended to attach your iPhone to motorcycles with high-power or high-volume engines due to the amplitude of the vibration in certain frequency ranges that they generate. Attaching your iPhone to vehicles with small-volume or electric engines, such as mopeds and scooters, may lead to comparatively lower-amplitude vibrations, but if you do so a vibration dampening mount is recommended to lessen the risk of damage to your iPhone and its OIS and AF systems. It is also recommended to avoid regular use for prolonged periods to further lessen the risk of damage,” says Apple in its support note to customers.
As for the BMW accessory ConnectedRide Cradle, it is compatible with the manufacturer’s R 1200 GS motorbike as well as can be fitted with older BMW bikes. It features 7.5W Qi wireless charging as well as option for wired charging via USB-C.
According to a report in Jalopnik, it is not clear in the case an iPhone’s cameras break while mounted to the accessory, will it be covered by Apple’s warranty or not.