Multi Media Interface

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 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 are used to launch the various features. The MMI screen is available as a five-inch monochrome black-and-red or seven-inch 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 a large number of in car entertainment components, car electronics, and other functions. The list below indicates the scope of systems controllable by MMI. However, 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.
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. Whilst appearing to be a similar layout, and operating in a similar manner, these two systems are very different, are unable to share mapping discs 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, although 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 especially difficult to navigate, partly due to the location of its controls low down on the center console.
Software updates.
MMI 3G and 3G+ systems have to be updated by an Audi dealer. The MMI 2G firmware can be updated by car owner. 
Software Version history.
MMI 2G Software Versions:
MMI 3G and 3G+ Software versions:
P=Shipped with car; K=Update software
BBT seems to be for Basic without Navigation, BNav seems to be for Basic and HNav for version with Hard-Disk
MMI 3G and 3G+ Navigation Database Versions:
All firmware updates for MMI 3G Basic, 3G High and 3G Plus:
Modular Infotainment Matrix [MIB].
Background.
Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB=Modularer Infotainment Baukasten in German) is a new architecture intended to solve a challenge that is becoming increasingly urgent – innovations in consumer electronics and rapid gains in computing power are being introduced at speeds that are much faster than the product cycles of automotive manufacturers.
The central computer in the modular infotainment platform, housed in the glove box, comprises two main units in a single housing – the Radio Car Control Unit and the MMX (Multi-Media eXtension) board. Along with its working and flash memories, the plug-in module integrates a Tegra processor from Nvidia, which can handle all online, media, voice control, navigation, and telephone functions. The new architecture makes it easy to update the hardware; the fact that the MMX board can be swapped out ensures the system is always up to date.
2012 saw the debut of the Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB) with an NVIDIA T 20 chip as its heart in the Audi A3. One-and-a-half years later, the MIB’s second stage has been deployed in the Audi TT and in the new Audi A6 and A7 Sportback. The T 30 is a quad-core chip running a 3D graphic program from specialist software manufacturer Rightware to render graphics on two displays simultaneously. Thanks to the matrix’ modular structure, Audi can keep it continuously up-to-date and integrate innovations from consumer electronics.
Another chip from NVIDIA, the Tegra 4, powers the Audi tablet debuting in the new Q7. With a 10.1‑inch display, the Audi tablets will provide mobile rear-seat entertainment. In the car, the special purpose tablet will connect itself to the on-board infotainment and navigation system via WLAN and can also be used on a WLAN outside the car.
MIB / MIB II.
The new MIB navigation system is the first system that allows the customer to update the vehicle’s navigation system on their own. The map data is available on the myAudi website for download or available in the MMI via an OTA update. For the 2015-2016 Audi A3 with MIB1, there is no OTA option in the MMI, thus the map data can only be updated using the SD card method.
For MIB1 & MIB2 vehicles, map updates are free for the first three years after the production date of the vehicle. The vehicle is automatically activated from the factory to allow the customer to update the MMI navigation with the next five releases within the next three years. This means the customer can attempt to update the MMI with the same release as many times as they want. Release schedules for map updates are approximately Calendar Week 22 (May/June) and Calendar Week 45(October/November) of each year.
MIB 3.
The 2021 Model Year is expected to include the Generation 3 infotainment technologies. This includes a digital marketplace in the myAudi app to add Audi Connect plans and SiriusXM with 360L.
Competing technologies.
Other car manufacturers use similar technologies in their car, including BMW with its iDrive system and Mercedes-Benz with its COMAND system; Lexus uses a mouse-based Remote Touch system; Ford uses a product called Sync; Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM Trucks and Fiat all use a touch screen UConnect system; Toyota uses Entune, Chevrolet, Buick and GMC use MyLink, Cadillac uses CUE and Volvo equipped their cars with optional RTI navigation system and now is using Sensus.