Thank you All Experts for your input so far!
This is what we know so far about the issue:
Per "What are the requirements for my smartphone to use Android Auto in my BMW?" section in BMW link below:
-- The prerequisite for using Android Auto™ is a compatible Android phone with an active data plan and 5 GHz Wi-Fi support:
-- A Google or Samsung phone with Android 10.0
A Samsung Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8+, or Note 8, with Android 9.0
Other brand phones with Android 11.0
https://www.bmw.co.uk/en/topics/owne...roid-auto.html
It seems that when Android Auto works - the smartphone connects to X1's WiFi-Direct using 5 GHz frequency. (confirmed by
plehrman )
In my case, when Android Auto does not work - the smartphone connects to X1's WiFi-Direct using 2.4 GHz frequency.
I saw in internet forums that the 5 GHz frequency of WiFi (needed for AA) can be allowed in some areas/countries and can be blocked in other areas/countries.
Also, per BMW link below, if X1 has "smartphone integration" option/code, then the AA should work. Note: my X1 has this option, but AA does not work.
https://www.bmw.co.uk/en/shop/ls/dp/...Integration_gb
Also, per "Which BMW models have Android Auto ?" section in BMW link below,
- Vehicles with BMW Operating System 7 or 8.
- Vehicles with the optional equipment Connected Package Professional (6C4). Only available in conjunction with BMW Live Cockpit Plus (6U2) or BMW Live Cockpit Professional (6U3).
- Note: The requirements for and availability of Android Auto™ may vary depending on the country.
https://www.bmw.co.uk/en/topics/owne...roid-auto.html
My X1 does not have the above codes and no-one at local BMW dealership ever told me about these codes and never offered me to purchase any of these options.
And, based on Google's link below, BMW X1 and X2 are not compatible with Google's Android Auto (which is in contradiction with BMW website).
https://www.android.com/auto/compati...ility-vehicles
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So far looks like a mess with BMW X1 in terms of Android Auto connectivity.
Dear Experts - if anyone has any idea or suggestion on how to investigate or resolve this issue - your input would be highly appreciated!