Mercedes UCI - Universal Consumer Interface

**DansSlk** · 06-02-2008

Keep your eyes open for retrofit kit's for this unit, i don't know quite how the facelift fit's into it if at all.

Basically its the retrofit of the USB (and others) setup in the new model's coming out that gives the the ability to connect any standard's compatible device to the car (MB specific compatibility is not required), just about everything will be supported and the system will also supply power to the devices.

This will be a serious upgrade from the traditional iPod kit since it will allow access to many more devices.

I will keep you guys informed as i find out more info with regard to headunit compatibility and so on.

**etyu** · 06-02-2008

Cool, much prefer USB (Universal Serial Bus) over the SD card slot, although I have none in my pre-facelift COMAND. Glad MB is catching up (albeit kinda slow).

**alroumi** · 06-02-2008

Will this be compatible to the older command?

**etyu** · 06-02-2008

I wish the engineers would also consider retro-compatibility when they come out with new head units. It will also be good for business (parts and service departments), i.e., OEM retrofit kits.

**DansSlk** · 06-02-2008

The unit is compatible with the MOST architecture that has been on the 171SLK from the start, if it's compatible with the system software on the NTG2 COMAND (pre-facelift) i don't know at this time nor do i know if they will give the NTG2 a software upgrade for it.

This will be like the iPod kit or the phone kit, they are technically retrofit kit's that have all the parts under a common number and have detailed instructions for the install but if it will be a home mod i doubt it, there is going to be a lot of work to fit it in but they might surprise me and as soon as i know something i will let you know.

Hopefully it will be for both pre and post facelift car's, it does mention control from the steering wheel and the headunit by the way.

SLK55UAE · 06-02-2008

I ordered this option and have it in my SLK55... minus the white 'connections' box (under investigation). Option shows up in Comand as 'Media Interface'.

Quote from Mercedes:

Quote:

Stuttgart – One simple move is all it takes: with the new Mercedes-Benz Universal Media Interface it’s easy to hook up cutting-edge mobile entertainment and communication devices such as USB-based MP3 players, music mobiles or the iPhone® to the on-board audio system. The interface, from Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH, is designed to allow customers to integrate the latest mobile multimedia technology into the existing vehicle architecture in various model series. The Universal Media Interface is compatible with the Audio 20 CD, Audio 50 APS and COMAND APS audio systems. When combined with the Audio 20 CD, which does not feature an integral navigation function, the interface also allows GPS map navigation.

Our desire not to be without our personal collection of music and images when on the move is growing in significance all the time. As a result the market for portable multimedia devices such as USB-based MP3 players, music phones and iPods ® is booming. The problem: the commercial solutions available for connecting up these entertainment devices on board have, until now, always involved a clear loss in quality. Help, however, is at hand: in the form of the new, retrofit Mercedes-Benz Universal Media Interface, an intelligent and particularly user-friendly solution. It allows external devices to be used via the on-board audio system – with the highest playback quality, convenient controls and perfect integration into the vehicle architecture.

Further advantages for the customer: following installation of the i nterface by a specialist Mercedes-Benz workshop, no further hardware or software installations are required. The module is discreetly located in the glove compartment, and external multimedia devices are quickly and simply connected “plug & play”-style. In addition to the relevant connections for various end devices, the interface also offers an SD card slot. To activate the various multimedia functions, all the user has to do is press the AUX button on the car radio. The convenient rotary controller on the centre console can then be used to navigate the clearly structured menus and select the required functions.

Perfect map navigation as a retrofit
The new Universal Media Interface can do even more: customers who use the popular ex-factory Audio 20 CD system, which does not feature integral navigation, benefit from a convenient retrofit navigation system when they select the Universal Media Interface. In addition to the required navigation software, the module set includes the latest map data for .
The system uses several information sources – such as the speed of travel and GPS coordinates – to pinpoint the location of the vehicle. Using the controller in the centre console is particularly convenient and safe. The map appears in the existing display and arrow symbols in the car’s instrument cluster indicate the recommended route. This means that there is no need for an additional monitor, which would impair the interior harmony.
The destination can be input without a time delay as the map data is stored in the internal memory. Calculation of the route is also instant, thanks to the system’s powerful processor. Numerous additional characteristics make na vigation exceptionally versatile. The standard TMC function (Traffic Message Channel) warns of tailbacks in real time and recommends diversions. The angle of the map depictions can be adjusted or switched to “Bird View Mode”. Audible directions can be given in 14 languages .
The system is always up-to-the-minute: because the Universal Media Interface features an SD card slot as standard, updates are simple to upload using the appropriate SD card, which can be purchased retrospectively as an option. This makes the Universal Media Interface an attractive and fully integrated retrofit navigation solution.

Unrestricted operating comfort
The music part of the new interface is perfectly integrated into the vehicle architecture. The driver can control all of the music functions – such as scrolling through playlists, navigating through menus, fast forwarding, rewinding or repeating a track – using the controller in the centre console. The audio system’s colour display ( five-inch screen with Audio 20 CD and Audio 50 APS and seven-inch with COMAND APS ) informs the user, among other things, of the title of the track, the name of the artist and the current mode of the MP3 player.
The music functions can also, as an option, be operated via the multifunction steering wheel. Here the most important information is displayed in the instrument cluster.
The power supply solution is equally elegant: the Mercedes-Benz Universal Media Interface automatically powers up the battery of the portable communication and entertainment devices via the on-board power supply as soon as the connection is established and the ignition is switched on. When the device is removed from the glove compartment after a long drive, the battery will be fully charged.

Video library and image database on board
Another special feature is planned for the COMAND APS control system: using the Universal Media Interface it will be possible to view photos or videos, for example from an iPhone , iPod , media player or digital camera, in the on-board display.

The Mercedes-Benz Universal Media Interface will initially be available for the Audio 20 CD system in the two new C-Class model series – Saloon and Estate. The market launch is planned for the 1st quarter of 2008. It will gradually be extended to other models series. Connection of the interface to the Audio 50 APS and COMAND APS audio systems will follow in a second development stage. A preview of the new Universal Media Interface will be provided during the International Motor Show in.

The functions of the Mercedes-Benz Universal Media Interface at a glance
When combined with the Audio 20 CD audio system, the Mercedes-Benz Universal Media Interface offers the following functions, which are shown on the display:
· Map navigation
· Integration of a USB-based MP3 player or a USB stick with audio files (“USB”)
· Playback of MP3 audio files saved on an Apple iPod® or the new iPhone® (“iPod/iPhone”)
· Connection to a conventional external audio device (“AUX”)
· Wireless transmission of audio signals by Bluetooth® (“audio streaming”)

When combined with the Audio 50 APS audio system and the COMAND APS control system, the Mercedes-Benz Universal Media Interface offers the following functions, which are shown on the display:
· Integration of a USB-based MP3 player (“USB”)
· Playback of MP3 audio files saved on an Apple iPod® or the new iPhone® (“iPod/iPhone”)
· Connection to a conventional external audio device (“AUX”)
· Wireless transmission of audio signals by Bluetooth® (“audio streaming”)
· Playback of video clips, photos and album logos from iPhone® and iPod® planned for COMAND APS in second development stage (“Video”)

Wimbledon_SLK · 06-02-2008

Yes i have ordered it too.

P

Wimbledon_SLK · 06-02-2008

UMI (Universal Media Interface)

The long awaited arrival of the new UMI box is almost upon us! This fantastic new product available only for the New C-Class (W/S 204) works in conjunction with the Audio 20 system.
With the UMI fitted to your New C-Class it will turn the Audio 20 into full 3D European navigation mapping system!
The UMI also has connection ports for USB, AUX and iPod. With an iPod connected you get full integration and can use the steering wheel controls to navigate through your iPod while it charges.

You can also stream music to the UMI direct from your mobile phone. The UMI is discreetly fitted in the glove box of your C-Class to hide it from prying eyes. Due early June with pre-orders being taken now! Fitted price is to be confirmed but we expect an approx fitted price of £800-£1000.

**-1-** · 06-02-2008

About time. Those with the Audio 20 were stuck in time with very few options other than a complete head unit replacement. We eagerly await the cost and installation requirements. Thanks for the info guys.

mtiede · 06-02-2008

C-Class only?

**vincent007** · 06-02-2008

I'm picking my '09 SLK up today and 'm going to be real disappointed if I can't retrofit this in....

I thought the new C-class and the '09 SLK had the same command?

Vinny

SLK55UAE · 06-02-2008

This is an option (518) with all recent Mercedes cars, new and facelifted with the new audio systems. That includes the new C, CLC, SL, ML, SLK... also for future 2009 I guess. Around US$240 option.

SLK55UAE · 06-02-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by vincent007

I'm picking my '09 SLK up today and 'm going to be real disappointed if I can't retrofit this in....

I thought the new C-class and the '09 SLK had the same command?

Vinny

Yes... they have the same comand as far as I know. I am sure it can be retrofitted assuming its requires only a cable and a module.

Wimbledon_SLK · 06-02-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by SLK55UAE

This is an option (518) with all recent Mercedes cars, new and facelifted with the new audio systems. That includes the new C, CLC, SL, ML, SLK... also for future 2009 I guess. Around US$240 option.

Correct! I ordered it for my new SLK

**vincent007** · 06-02-2008

Maybe DanSLK can comment and clear up my confusion on this for the SLK....

**richard_leeds** · 06-02-2008

The comments about GPS on the Audio 20 are interesting. I think they must mean the new Audio 20 which has a ful colour screen? The previous version has a simple dot matrix single colour display.

Edit: The MB UK website says "Only available in conjunction with integral 6 CD changer, Audio 50 APS or COMAND" ... http://tinyurl.com/6x4hsd

HwoALanG · 06-02-2008

i want one ~~~ where can we get it?

**DansSlk** · 06-02-2008

OK guy's i think there's some confusion here, this is for a device that allows different audio feeds to be connected to the car's ICE network, don't expect it to give the whole nine yard's that MB are going on about.

If you have a post facelift car then you can get the factory option retrofitted for better functionality, IF this unit is compatible with pre-facelift car's then it will probably emulate the CDC and you will not have the option to do anything other than feed music from it.

It will be available as a retrofit for a wide variety of model's, it's just going to start with a few.

For those asking about the COMAND, NO the SLK facelift COMAND is not the same as the new C class COMAND, the SLK unit has more in common with the pre-facelift unit than the model's with the control panel and display screen separate.

06-02-2008	#1 (permalink)
DansSlk Super Moderator Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,623 Country: Thanks: 91 Thanked 182 Times in 139 Posts	Mercedes UCI - Universal Consumer Interface Keep your eyes open for retrofit kit's for this unit, i don't know quite how the facelift fit's into it if at all. Basically its the retrofit of the USB (and others) setup in the new model's coming out that gives the the ability to connect any standard's compatible device to the car (MB specific compatibility is not required), just about everything will be supported and the system will also supply power to the devices. This will be a serious upgrade from the traditional iPod kit since it will allow access to many more devices. I will keep you guys informed as i find out more info with regard to headunit compatibility and so on. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.
	http://www.slkworld.com/

06-02-2008	#2 (permalink)
etyu Founding Member #2 / Ambassador Of Good Will Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Orange County, CA Vehicle: 2008 SLK 55 Posts: 5,133 Country: Thanks: 379 Thanked 244 Times in 140 Posts	Cool, much prefer USB (Universal Serial Bus) over the SD card slot, although I have none in my pre-facelift COMAND. Glad MB is catching up (albeit kinda slow). __________________ *Eddy* To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Pewter/Beige, PIII package, Airscarf, Hands-Free Communication System, Lighting package Designo Black Leather Cover on e-brake handle, ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Bill T), SmartTop v1.0, Kleyman 3BFM (NoRegret Custom), Green Air Filters, *Mod. R170 ant.* EuroClear sidemarkers w/PIAA PlasmaIon lamps, chromed front & rear turn indicator lamps, PIAA SuperPlasmaGTX front parking lamps, HyperWhite license plate lamps ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Scott), bilateral rear fog lamps enabled.

06-02-2008	#3 (permalink)
alroumi Moderator Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Kuwait City, Kuwait Vehicle: 2006 Kleemann Designo Mocha Black SLK55 AMG Other Toys: 2007 Ebony Jaguar XKR Coupe' and 06 Black Cayenne S Posts: 6,214 Country: Thanks: 290 Thanked 223 Times in 134 Posts	Will this be compatible to the older command? __________________ 06 Kleemann Designo Mocha Black SLK55 AMG 06 Porsche Cayenne S 07 Jaguar XKR Coupe' I use the Torque and keep the HP for my Steak Sauce!

06-02-2008	#4 (permalink)
etyu Founding Member #2 / Ambassador Of Good Will Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Orange County, CA Vehicle: 2008 SLK 55 Posts: 5,133 Country: Thanks: 379 Thanked 244 Times in 140 Posts	I wish the engineers would also consider retro-compatibility when they come out with new head units. It will also be good for business (parts and service departments), i.e., OEM retrofit kits. __________________ *Eddy* To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Pewter/Beige, PIII package, Airscarf, Hands-Free Communication System, Lighting package Designo Black Leather Cover on e-brake handle, ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Bill T), SmartTop v1.0, Kleyman 3BFM (NoRegret Custom), Green Air Filters, *Mod. R170 ant.* EuroClear sidemarkers w/PIAA PlasmaIon lamps, chromed front & rear turn indicator lamps, PIAA SuperPlasmaGTX front parking lamps, HyperWhite license plate lamps ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Scott), bilateral rear fog lamps enabled.

06-02-2008	#5 (permalink)
DansSlk Super Moderator Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,623 Country: Thanks: 91 Thanked 182 Times in 139 Posts	The unit is compatible with the MOST architecture that has been on the 171SLK from the start, if it's compatible with the system software on the NTG2 COMAND (pre-facelift) i don't know at this time nor do i know if they will give the NTG2 a software upgrade for it. This will be like the iPod kit or the phone kit, they are technically retrofit kit's that have all the parts under a common number and have detailed instructions for the install but if it will be a home mod i doubt it, there is going to be a lot of work to fit it in but they might surprise me and as soon as i know something i will let you know. Hopefully it will be for both pre and post facelift car's, it does mention control from the steering wheel and the headunit by the way. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

06-02-2008	#7 (permalink)
Wimbledon_SLK Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: London Vehicle: SLK 280 Other Toys: Honda VFR 750 Posts: 645 Country: Thanks: 33 Thanked 35 Times in 9 Posts	Yes i have ordered it too. P

06-02-2008	#8 (permalink)
Wimbledon_SLK Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: London Vehicle: SLK 280 Other Toys: Honda VFR 750 Posts: 645 Country: Thanks: 33 Thanked 35 Times in 9 Posts	UMI (Universal Media Interface) The long awaited arrival of the new UMI box is almost upon us! This fantastic new product available only for the New C-Class (W/S 204) works in conjunction with the Audio 20 system. With the UMI fitted to your New C-Class it will turn the Audio 20 into full 3D European navigation mapping system! The UMI also has connection ports for USB, AUX and iPod. With an iPod connected you get full integration and can use the steering wheel controls to navigate through your iPod while it charges. You can also stream music to the UMI direct from your mobile phone. The UMI is discreetly fitted in the glove box of your C-Class to hide it from prying eyes. Due early June with pre-orders being taken now! Fitted price is to be confirmed but we expect an approx fitted price of £800-£1000.

06-02-2008	#9 (permalink)
-1- Don Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Virginia USA Vehicle: SLK 55 ///AMG The MON55TER on the block Posts: 2,207 Country: Thanks: 50 Thanked 55 Times in 39 Posts	About time. Those with the Audio 20 were stuck in time with very few options other than a complete head unit replacement. We eagerly await the cost and installation requirements. Thanks for the info guys. __________________ To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. *----------------1-----------------* --------SLK 55 ///AMG--------- THE MON55TER ON THE BLOCK

06-02-2008	#10 (permalink)
mtiede Founding Member #7 Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Western New York Vehicle: 2006 SLK 350 Posts: 1,472 Thanks: 80 Thanked 44 Times in 34 Posts	C-Class only?

06-02-2008	#11 (permalink)
vincent007 SLK World Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: NY Vehicle: White '09 SLK 350 Other Toys: Honda Valkyrie, Honda Ridgeline Posts: 58 Country: Thanks: 5 Thanked 9 Times in 6 Posts	I'm picking my '09 SLK up today and 'm going to be real disappointed if I can't retrofit this in.... I thought the new C-class and the '09 SLK had the same command? Vinny

06-02-2008	#12 (permalink)
SLK55UAE SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 35 Country: Thanks: 8 Thanked 8 Times in 7 Posts	This is an option (518) with all recent Mercedes cars, new and facelifted with the new audio systems. That includes the new C, CLC, SL, ML, SLK... also for future 2009 I guess. Around US$240 option.

06-02-2008	#15 (permalink)
vincent007 SLK World Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: NY Vehicle: White '09 SLK 350 Other Toys: Honda Valkyrie, Honda Ridgeline Posts: 58 Country: Thanks: 5 Thanked 9 Times in 6 Posts	Maybe DanSLK can comment and clear up my confusion on this for the SLK....

06-02-2008	#16 (permalink)
richard_leeds Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Leeds, UK Vehicle: 05 350 Posts: 207 Country: Thanks: 16 Thanked 10 Times in 7 Posts	The comments about GPS on the Audio 20 are interesting. I think they must mean the new Audio 20 which has a ful colour screen? The previous version has a simple dot matrix single colour display. Edit: The MB UK website says "Only available in conjunction with integral 6 CD changer, Audio 50 APS or COMAND" ... http://tinyurl.com/6x4hsd

06-02-2008	#17 (permalink)
HwoALanG Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Ellicott City & Salisbury, MD Vehicle: 2007 SLK 280 Other Toys: COMPUTER? And1 and on Posts: 309 Country: Thanks: 3 Thanked 3 Times in 3 Posts	i want one ~~~ where can we get it?

06-02-2008	#18 (permalink)
DansSlk Super Moderator Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,623 Country: Thanks: 91 Thanked 182 Times in 139 Posts	OK guy's i think there's some confusion here, this is for a device that allows different audio feeds to be connected to the car's ICE network, don't expect it to give the whole nine yard's that MB are going on about. If you have a post facelift car then you can get the factory option retrofitted for better functionality, IF this unit is compatible with pre-facelift car's then it will probably emulate the CDC and you will not have the option to do anything other than feed music from it. It will be available as a retrofit for a wide variety of model's, it's just going to start with a few. For those asking about the COMAND, NO the SLK facelift COMAND is not the same as the new C class COMAND, the SLK unit has more in common with the pre-facelift unit than the model's with the control panel and display screen separate. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.