The German car giant reported pre-tax profits of 3bn euros (Â£2.5bn), a 27% jump from the same period in 2016.
BMW said the value of the stake in Here had risen by 183m euros.
The car manufacturer also cited improved earnings from its Chinese joint venture, BMW Brilliance Automotive, for its higher profits.
The US chip giant Intel said in January it would buy 15% of Here, which is co-owned by Audi, BMW and Daimler.
Here develops technology that feeds mapping information to autonomous and semi-autonomous cars.
It also makes digital products that provide information on the location of upcoming hazards, traffic, road signs and charging points for electric vehicles, as well as an alternative positioning system to GPS.
BMW is due to publish its detailed first-quarter results on 4 May.

Martin Gallagher, 25, faces a charge under the Offensive Behaviour at Football Act.
Prosecutors claim Gallagher committed the offence at the Parkhead clash on September 10 which Celtic won 5-1.
The charges include the claim that he engaged in behaviour which may be likely to "incite public disorder".
This is said to involve the display of a banner that contained a "threatening and offensive remark".
The charge also states two "inflatable figures" were shown which were "fashioned in a threatening and offensive manner".
Gallagher, from Glasgow's east end, pleaded not guilty when he appeared from custody at Glasgow Sheriff Court.
He was represented by Neal McShane who requested his client was bailed with no special conditions.
The Crown requested that special bail conditions, including not to enter Celtic Park or to attend any regulated football games, were put in place.
Sheriff Alan Findlay granted bail and a trial was set for March next year.
BMW's first quarter profits rose more than expected after the value of its stake in the mapping service Here was boosted by an investment by Intel.
[NEXT_CONCEPT]
Another Celtic fan has appeared in court charged with displaying an allegedly offensive banner and blow-up figures at last month's Old Firm match.