BMW is saying goodbye to a function that Deyeted approximately a decade ago, but never caught the attention of drivers.
The German car manufacturer has announced that it will abandon its gesture function, introduced in 2015, in favor of a more complex information and entertainment system.
The announcement was made at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas, where BMW presented its new generation of cars as a component of its Neue Klassie line.
The decision to abandon gesture control comes at a time when the company is focused on complex voice control systems and other state-of-the-art features.
Introduced with the 2015 7 Series, BMW’s gesture allowed drivers to carry out undeniable responsibilities, such as adjusting the volume of the radio or waving a song while waving their hands.
At the time, the generation was considered revolutionary and featured a futuristic way of interacting with a car’s infotainment system.
However, despite it’s innovation, the feature failed to gain widespread popularity.
Few drivers constantly used the function, and has become one of BMW’s less known offers.
BMW’s new technology aims to simplify and enhance the driving experience.
Upcoming Neue Klasse models will feature the improved BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which will allow drivers to use voice commands for responsibilities such as converting music, adjusting navigation and adjusting vehicle settings.
This formula works through BMW’s X Operating System and will be incorporated into all long-term models.
One highlight is the Panoramic iDrive, a sleek, next generation infotainment display that promises seamless interaction and a more immersive driving experience.
Frank Weber, a member of BMW’s Board of Management says , the updated system sets “the industry benchmark in a multimodal interaction.”
BMW acknowledges that gesture control, while innovative at launch, simply didn’t resonate with drivers as intended.
With voice control now offering a more intuitive and natural way to interact with the car, the automaker decided it was time to move on.
Webber says: “The base is provided by the new BMW X operating system. With this advance, we are providing one of the most complete information and entertainment systems in the world with even greater capabilities. “
The first Neue Klasse model featuring the new system is set to debut later this year, with plans to roll out the technology across all future models.
While gesture control fades into history, BMW’s focus on cutting-edge innovation ensures that its vehicle remain at the forefront of the automotive industry.
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