Audi Multi Media Interface

Text and pictures courtesy of Audi of America

Audi has always focused on developing technology that works for consumers, not against them. The latest Audi innovation is an intuitive system for operating onboard electronics. The Audi Multi Media Interface (MMI) joins the list of Audi advancements, including the legendary quattro® all-wheel drive system for traction and performance, the extensive use of aluminum for automobile strength, and the efficiency of the gearless multitronic™ Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

The Multi Media Interface is another example of Audi’s commitment to keeping the focus on driving. Instinctive and easy to operate, this state-of-the-art technology is offered on the brand’s luxury flagship sedan, the all-new 2004 Audi A8 L.

MMI is a user-friendly interface for the operation of onboard electronic systems — everything from the radio/CD player and suspension dynamics and ride height to the Audi Navigation System. MMI allows control without diverting attention from driving.

Onboard electronics often have individual operating procedures, many also with their own displays. The “mental gymnastics” required to control all these devices creates the potential for confusion, or even worse, driver distraction.

Audi MMI helps drivers keep focused on the road by creating a common onboard electronics operating principle in a single control unit. MMI also replaces the multiple and often dissimilar displays of various onboard electronics with a single monitor providing pictograph guidance and visual confirmation of inputs.

The MMI terminal is ergonomically located in the center console, behind the shifter and just forward of the armrest, for comfortable reach. Operating controls consist of a rotating On/Off and Volume knob (A), a rotate- and push-to-select center knob (B), four “soft” keys (C), four “hard” keys (D) and a “Return” and directional keys (E).

The operating principle of MMI is logical and quick to learn: Rotate the On/Off knob and then push the “hard” key of the electronics category to be adjusted; depress a “soft” key that corresponds to the category item as identified on the monitor; then rotate the center knob to the preferred adjustment as indicated on the monitor, and push down the center knob to select the desired action. The “Return” key scrolls back through the command screens one at a time, convenient for readjustments and corrections. To adjust multiple electronics, simply repeat the process starting with the appropriate “hard” key.

To simplify MMI operation, commonly used items are up high in the electronic menu for quick access. Less commonly required and infrequently altered items are located in sub-menus that can be scrolled through using the left- and right-arrow keys.

The upper left “hard” key accesses Entertainment functions for the radio and CD. The lower left “hard” key opens Communication controls for telematics and hands-free mobile telephone systems. The upper right “hard” key produces Information controls for navigation. The lower right “hard” key opens Vehicle controls for set-up of ride and drive dynamics, as well as for establishing driver-preferred settings.

To operate MMI, Audi drivers need to remember only four basic steps: