After 24 years, BMW is retiring its iconic iDrive rotary controller, a feature that has been central to its infotainment systems since its debut in the 2001 7 Series. The decision reflects evolving user preferences and technological advancements in vehicle interfaces.
The iDrive knob revolutionized in-car controls by consolidating various functions into a single interface, reducing dashboard clutter. However, recent internal studies by BMW indicate a significant shift towards touchscreen interactions, with drivers increasingly favoring direct touch inputs over the rotary controller. This trend has led to the controller’s gradual removal from newer models, such as the X2, and will continue with the introduction of BMW’s latest Panoramic iDrive system.
In addition to phasing out the iDrive knob, BMW is discontinuing its Gesture Control feature, introduced in 2015. Despite its innovative approach, Gesture Control did not achieve widespread adoption among drivers. Advancements in voice command technology, particularly the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant powered by BMW Operating System X, have rendered gesture-based controls less essential.
Joern Freyer, BMW’s Head of User Interaction, explained that the move away from the rotary controller and Gesture Control is based on user data showing a clear preference for touchscreens and voice commands. This shift allows BMW to streamline its software design, focusing on optimizing the user experience through these more popular interaction methods.
The upcoming Panoramic iDrive system exemplifies BMW’s commitment to modernizing its vehicle interfaces. Featuring a 17.9-inch touchscreen, the system offers an intuitive and immersive experience, aligning with current user expectations for in-car technology.
By embracing these changes, BMW aims to enhance the driving experience, ensuring its vehicles remain at the forefront of automotive innovation.
