- What is BMW Gesture Control?
- How to Enable It
- Tips for Using Gesture Control
- BMW Cars with Technology
- FAQs
Evident from its name, BMW gesture technology is the automaker’s new feature that allows drivers to control certain features just by their hand movements. However, this cutting-edge technology is only available in certain BMW models. Let’s go through the features in detail.
What is the BMW Gesture Control Technology
BMW introduces a groundbreaking feature that allows drivers to effortlessly manage the iDrive system using hand gestures. Therefore, if you happen to spot a BMW driver gracefully moving their hands while on the road, it’s not an attempt to shoo away pesky insects from the iDrive – it’s a demonstration of the automaker’s cutting-edge technology.
In essence, the latest BMW gesture control feature empowers drivers to use specific iDrive functions through hand gestures, all of which are captured by a sophisticated 3D camera. With simple hand movements, you can accept or reject phone calls, adjust audio volume, set navigation destinations or even change the angle in the 360-degree view of the vehicle.
Designed with driver safety in mind, the BMW gesture control technology 2023 enables drivers to interact with the iDrive system seamlessly while keeping their focus on the road.
This feature proves invaluable in situations where taking your eyes off the road might be risky but still allows you to handle essential tasks, such as answering an important call.
How to Enable the BMW Gesture Control Technology
If your iDrive system includes a camera in the roof function centre and has the gesture control feature, you can activate it either through the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant or by navigating to your iDrive settings. Here are the steps for the latter option:
- Navigate to ‘Car’ in your iDrive menu.
- Access ‘Settings.’
- Enter ‘General Settings.’
- Locate ‘Gesture Control.’
- Select whether you want to activate or deactivate gesture control.
How to Use BMW Gesture Control Technology
The functionality of BMW’s gesture control technology relies on advanced 3D technology. The sensors for BMW gesture control are strategically placed in the car’s roof lining, adjacent to the rear-view mirror. These sensors interpret a predefined set of hand gestures made in front of the centre console, just above the gearshift lever.
To ensure the system functions effectively, drivers should make gestures in close proximity to the screen, as illustrated in the accompanying picture.
Leveraging the power of 3D technology, drivers can seamlessly access various functions of a BMW vehicle without diverting their attention from the road. As mentioned earlier, with this feature tasks like accepting or declining a phone call, adjusting the volume of the audio system, or activating the navigation system can be accomplished safely.
Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
- Turn the Volume Up – Perform a clockwise circular motion with your finger.
- Turn the Volume Down – Execute a counterclockwise circular motion with your finger.
- Accept a Call – Direct your finger towards the BMW iDrive touchscreen.
- Reject a Call – Swipe your hand to the right.
- Select Navigation/Custom Setting – Use two fingers to point to the touch screen.
- Change Rear View Camera Angle – Draw a circle using your forefinger and thumb.
BMW Models with Gesture Control Technology
Enhancing the driving experience, gesture control, an integral part of the BMW iDrive system, offers added convenience. This feature is available across a diverse range of vehicles in the BMW lineup. If you’re considering a pre-owned BMW in the UAE, it’s advisable to seek a model equipped with the BMW Technology Package.
Alternatively, for those opting for a new purchase, the Gesture Control feature is typically included in the Premium Package.
It’s important to note that the Gesture Control function is exclusive to the latest G-Series BMW models and is specified as an optional activation. The feature that made its debut in 2015 was introduced in the G11/G12 7 Series BMW, featuring an NBT Evo ID6 iDrive.
Nowadays, Gesture Control can be found in nearly every BMW equipped with Operating System 7.0, supporting the latest MGU head unit.
The G-Series BMW models featuring Operating System 7.0 (MGU iDrive) include:
- BMW 3 Series (G20). Those interested in the model can go through these used BMW 3-Series cars for sale in the UAE.
- BMW 4 Series (G22). Here is a list of pre-owned BMW 4-Series cars for sale in the UAE.
- BMW Z4 (G29). Go through this compilation of used BMW Z4 cars for sale in the UAE if you’re interested in this model.
- BMW X5 (G05). Those with an interest can check out these used BMW X5 cars for sale.
- BMW X6 (G06). Keen individuals can explore these pre-owned BMW X6 cars for sale.
In addition to the aforementioned models, the following BMW cars also have the BMW Gesture control technology.
- BMW 5 Series (G30)
- BMW 6 Series (G32)
- BMW 7 Series (G11)
- BMW 8 Series (G15)
- BMW X3 (G01)
- BMW X4 (G02)
- BMW X7 (G07)
These models showcase the integration of BMW gesture control, ensuring a more intuitive and convenient driving experience. Some of the aforementioned BMW car series also come equipped with the BMW In-Car Gaming features.
It’s important to note that the technology is not always a standard feature; in certain cases, it may be an optional add-on that can be retrofitted. The determining factor is whether your vehicle is equipped with a camera in the roof function centre.
Some G-Series cars already come with a sunroof module that incorporates a camera (options S6U8A and S6U3A), while others may lack this feature. If your BMW falls into the latter category, you would need a complete roof function centre hardware retrofit to enable Gesture Control.
To ascertain whether your BMW includes Gesture Control, contact your dealer. Here is a list of BMW showrooms in the UAE. For those engaging in online purchases, reaching out to the support team or thoroughly reviewing the features listed on the website can provide the necessary information.
This ensures clarity on whether Gesture Control is a standard feature, an optional add-on, or requires retrofitting for your specific BMW model. Similar to gesture control,
FAQs
Do all BMW car models come standard with the gesture control technology?
No, the BMW gesture control technology is not standard on all its models.
Which models have the BMW gesture control technology?
Gesture Control can be found in almost all BMW cars equipped with Operating System 7.0, supporting the latest MGU head unit. The models include BMW 3 Series (G20), BMW 4 Series (G22), BMW 5 Series (G30), BMW 6 Series (G32), BMW 7 Series (G11), BMW 8 Series (G15), BMW X3(G01), BMW X4 (G02), BMW X5 (G05), BMW X6 (G06), BMW X7 (G07) and BMW Z4 (G29). The BMW Shy Tech is another state-of-the-art feature found in different BMW car models.
That is a wrap on the BMW gesture control technology feature. Besides, here is a list of the entire naming system of BMW vehicles. Those interested in the brand can also go through these interesting facts about BMW.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more on various car technologies and much more.
Related Posts
