BMW’s latest technological advancement in in-car entertainment was showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024. The highlight is the new iDrive 9 infotainment system, which now supports gaming controllers, including those from PlayStation, allowing passengers to play video games inside the car.
The Evolution of iDrive 9
The iDrive 9 system is a notable advancement in BMW’s infotainment technology, representing a significant improvement over its predecessors. The system’s capabilities extend beyond traditional navigation and media functions to include gaming and entertainment options, underscoring BMW’s broader strategy to optimize the in-car experience. This emphasis on entertainment and convenience is particularly relevant in the context of the growing importance of electric vehicles (EVs), where charging times can be leveraged for in-car entertainment. As such, the iDrive 9 system’s innovative features could be a significant selling point for BMW’s future EVs, offering a unique and compelling value proposition to consumers.
Gaming Experience in BMW
BMW, the German automobile manufacturer, has incorporated gaming controllers into its latest models, offering an unparalleled experience that is typically associated with home gaming consoles. This advanced system is specifically optimized for the rear seats, particularly in models such as the 7 Series and China’s long-wheelbase 5 Series. These models can be equipped with a 31.3-inch Theatre Screen that supports 8K resolution, providing an immersive gaming experience. Furthermore, an optional 36-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system can further enhance this experience, making it a unique feature in the automotive world. This development signifies a significant advancement in the automobile industry, where car manufacturers are increasingly incorporating technology to enhance the driving experience.
Intelligent Personal Assistant and AI Integration
BMW is currently engaged in enhancing its Intelligent Personal Assistant capabilities by leveraging artificial intelligence in conjunction with the Amazon Alexa Large Language Model. The integration of these technologies is aimed at providing users with more human-like, conversational responses, thereby adding an additional layer of sophistication to the in-car user experience. It is anticipated that over-the-air updates will be deployed to refine the interaction between the existing Intelligent Personal Assistant and OS 9.
Looking Forward
The aforementioned technological advancements, while perhaps not as visually impactful as BMW’s color-changing E Ink technology featured in CES 2022, have a more immediate effect on the driving experience. BMW’s efforts to seamlessly incorporate advanced technology and entertainment features into their vehicles are a direct response to the evolving needs and expectations of today’s drivers and passengers.
In essence, BMW’s iDrive 9 system is poised to revolutionize in-car entertainment by harmonizing advanced technology with user-centric features. This underscores the automotive industry’s shift towards a more comprehensive and adaptable in-car experience, one that seamlessly integrates entertainment, convenience, and technology.
