BMW unveils new iDrive display and control system at CES

CES 2025 BMW unveils new Panoramic iDrive

2025-01-13 From Lina Demmel | Translated by AI 4 min Reading Time

BMW has unveiled its future iDrive display and control system at the CES. This system is to be used in all new BMW models from the end of 2025.

The new Panoramic iDrive display and control system is to be implemented in all new BMW models from the end of 2025.(Image: BMW) — The new Panoramic iDrive display and control system is to be implemented in all new BMW models from the end of 2025.
(Image: BMW)

BMW today presented its future iDrive display and control system with its centerpiece, the Panoramic Vision, in Las Vegas. The new BMW Operating System X forms the software basis. The new system is to be introduced in all new BMW models from the end of 2025.

"High-tech meets highly intuitive operation—the new BMW Panoramic iDrive incorporates a quarter-century of pioneering and technological leadership in control concepts," said BMW Development Chief Frank Weber.

The new iDrive consists of four central elements:

The Panoramic Vision head-up display reflects visible information from A-pillar to A-pillar onto a black print area at the bottom of the windshield. This information is visible to all passengers. The most important driving information is projected in the driver's line of sight on the left side, above the steering wheel. The content in the middle and right areas can be personalized by the driver via the central display.
The optional 3D head-up display is located directly in the driver's line of sight above the Panoramic Vision. It delivers integrated displays for navigation and automated driving for the first time.
According to BMW, the central display with matrix backlight technology and Quick Select menu structure is designed to provide optimal touch operation of functions and content. Selected content for the Panoramic Vision can be transferred using swipe gestures. Up to six widgets are possible.
The multifunction steering wheel is based on BMW's Shy-Tech concept. Functions are highlighted by illuminating the buttons when available. It serves as the primary physical control element, providing active haptic feedback through its buttons. The embossed surface of the buttons is designed to provide optimal orientation and allow operation with the hand without having to take your eyes off the road. The arrangement of the buttons follows the familiar principle: Driver assistance functions are found on the left side of the steering wheel, while content control functions are on the right side.

The system combines analog and digital controls with switches, buttons, touch, or voice. There are haptic switches for wipers, indicators, side mirrors, volume control, gear selector, or window defrosters. Other functions are optimized for use via touch and voice or the multifunction steering wheel, such as telephony, media control, navigation, assisted driving, personalization of displays, or selection of "MyModes".

BMW Operating System X

The new BMW Operating System X is based on an Android Open Source Project (AOSP) software stack, like the Operating System 9. According to the manufacturer, it offers higher update and upgrade capabilities compared to the previous system, making it future-proof and backward compatible. It is prepared for additional functions and keeps vehicles equipped with the new Panoramic iDrive up-to-date with the latest technology over a long period.

According to BMW, Operating System X makes it possible to align the four central elements of Panoramic Vision so that physical and digital experiences merge. For instance, when a call comes in, an appropriate graphic representation initially appears on the Panoramic Vision. At the same time, a previously invisible symbol lights up green on the corresponding steering wheel button, indicating the possibility to accept the call by pressing the button or to decline it with a swipe on the right side of the steering wheel. When entering a navigation destination via touch function or voice command, routing guidance is displayed on the 3D head-up display, and further information about roads and intersections is shown on the Panoramic Vision. Meanwhile, the entire map overview can be viewed on the central display at any time for orientation, if desired.

The displays in the Panoramic Vision can be customized. Additionally, it is possible to individually set driving characteristics such as responsiveness and steering behavior. The central display can be personalized with images. Furthermore, the color selection of the ambient lighting and the entire display cluster can be adjusted according to personal preferences.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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Improved Personal Assistant

The so-called Intelligent Personal Assistant from BMW responds as usual to the prompt "Hey BMW" or is available via a button press on the multifunction steering wheel. Through the integration of Large Language Models (LLM), it is intended to be elevated to a new level. Initially, the focus of this technology's application is in the navigation area. As in current infotainment systems, the Intelligent Personal Assistant can proactively make suggestions based on user behavior. At the booth of technology partner Amazon, visitors to the CES can gain a first impression of the capabilities through a beta version in a BMW X3.

The new sound experience "HypersonX" in the models of the New Class is also intended to contribute to the holistic experience of the Panoramic iDrive. It includes 43 sound marks as well as special driving sounds for Personal and Sport modes.

For the development of the new iDrive, BMW leveraged data-driven experiences from the use of control systems in more than 22 million connected vehicles. Additionally, the manufacturer conducted numerous studies in usability labs with about 3,000 customers.