SAN FRANCISCO, June 21 (Reuters) - Apple Computer Inc. on Monday announced an adapter to allow users of its iPod digital music player to connect them in some BMW and MINI Cooper models and play their music libraries through the car stereo systems using the car's controls.
Apple and BMW AG said in a joint statement that the adapter, priced at $149, would work in BMW's 3 Series, Z4 Roadster, X3 and X5 SUVs and the Mini Cooper.
Users would plug the iPod into a cable in the car's glove compartment and then could control the iPod using the standard buttons on the steering wheel, the companies said.
Some new cars already have audio jacks that can be used to connect digital music players, including the iPod, to car stereos.
But Apple said this was the first time that an adapter had been specifically designed to integrate the player with the existing audio controls of a particular car model.
Apple's iPod is the most popular digital music player on the market, and the company has sold more than 3 million of the devices since their introduction in October 2001. The iPod works with Apple's iTunes online music store.
"One of the next frontiers for a seamless digital music experience is the car," said Steve Jobs, Apple's chief executive in a statement.
The roll-out is being supported by a dedicated Web site called www.ipodyourbmw.com, as well as a marketing campaign including print, outdoor, online and television advertising, the companies said.
The adapter must be installed by authorized BMW and MINI centers only, the companies said. The device will be available at BMW centers starting July 12, for 2002, 2003 and 2004 models. The adapter for the Mini will be available later this summer, the companies said.