BMW iX debuts all-new intelligent, multisensorial idrive user experience

the BMW iX rethinks mobility through exterior and interior design as well as user experience. the flagship electric SAV introduces the new generation of BMW idrive – an operating system that enlivens the car to be as smart as the passengers’ lives. it takes the natural dialogue between driver and vehicle into a digital future, serving as an intelligent, tailored and proactive partner in any situation. this unique experience extends far beyond software that can receive regular over-the-air updates, unveiling a whole new suite of displays, controls, connectivity and data processing.

the reduced digital design of the BMW idrive is revealed on the futuristic curved display of the iX car
all images courtesy of the BMW group

debuting in the BMW iX, the BMW idrive’s pure, reduced digital design matches the EV’s minimalist appearance inside and out. a futuristic curved display sits atop the dashboard, clearly angled towards the driver. this is split into two screens: a 12.3-inch information and 14.9-inch controls displays. voice and touch control was favored to reduce the number of buttons by half. the few remaining control clusters feature where the driver would anticipate on the center console and instrument panel. an all-new idrive controller also rests on the console, designed with a smart glass-effect finish and encircled by a gold bronze bezel.

on the center console, the idrive controller features a smart glass-effect finish and is encircled by a gold bronze bezel

the new design language of the BMW operating system 8 is put on display on the curved screen specifically. an artistic approach pairs strong, eye-catching graphics with modern colors, futuristic textures and bright lights that can even adapt in-sync with multimedia – all on ultra-high 220 ppi resolution. the concept aims to bridge the boundaries between the digital and analog; the digital’s use of geometric structures mirror those of the analog buttons. the ‘act, locate and inform’ principle pre-filters information to avoid screen redundancy and clearly shows only the most relevant details, indicators and options.

the display’s information and controls areas pre-filtered to show only the most relevant details, indicators and options

BMW’s intelligent personal assistant is essential to this unique, highly tailored user experience. it enables the system’s ability to adjust to the driver’s individual needs and routines as well as the situation at hand. it acts as a digital character that can be prompted by the name of the user’s choice. the assistant is visualized on screen with a non-verbal dialogue as spheres of light in different sizes and brightnesses create a human-like, trustworthy and dynamic face for gestures. this reflects the shy-tech nature shown in the iX vehicle: innovations only appear where needed or, in this instance, spoken to.

with a personal assistant at the heart of the vehicle, the emotional relationship with the driver is further strengthened with BMW ID. the personalization tool recognizes repetitive actions, learns from them and provides suggestions on functions accordingly. ultra-wideband radio technology enables precision location that pin-points the distance between car and key/smartphone, knowing exactly when and where from the driver is approaching. the ID choreographs a welcoming ‘great entrance moment’ as the gap closes to 3 meters. here, the car wakes up to illuminate a carpet of lights towards the doors and gradually intensifies lighting that emits from the cabin.

the highly personal BMW ID recognizes repetitive actions, learns from them and provides on-screen suggestions

special moments with the vehicle extends much further than just the ‘great entrance moment’. BMW idrive also introduces ‘my modes’ which encompasses an interplay of functions, vehicle characteristics and interior ambience to heighten the user experience. this is by stimulating multiple senses, from sight to hearing to touch. the driver’s preferences – registered by the personal assistant – combine up to ten different parameters including multimedia, navigation and previous driving experience modes, such as drive system and transmission control, steering characteristics and chassis settings. the cabin’s environment and display changes in color, artwork and overall feel for each option. this digital design magnifies the brand’s famed driving pleasure.