The snap-in adapter does help with reception. I can't use my phone near my home without it. I also like the fact that the phone is out of the way and charging. To me, it is worth it (although I'm confused by this new plate that needs to be purchased and it sounds like it won't work in either of my cars until the 2014 version comes out....
Last but not least, BMW Apps will support Android later this year...or was that next year?