#Bmw idrive versions update#
#Bmw idrive versions full#
#Bmw idrive versions android#

#Bmw idrive versions update#

One of the key benefits of this new system is better over-the-air update capabilities, with Weber pointing out that BMW will have the largest fleet of updateable cars on the roads by the end of 2021 – more than 2.5 million. Sizing of the screens may differ in future models but, for the iX, the display is essentially two screens linked together – a 12.3-inch one for the instruments and a larger 14.9-inch one used in the centre.įrank Weber, head of development at BMW, says the new iDrive 8 has five ‘super-brains’ controlling the software, which allows between 20 and 30 times the processing power of iDrive 7. What is it all based on?īMW’s new curved display – again, first seen on the new iX.

#Bmw idrive versions full#

Naturally, the new OS is full of buzzwords designed to move the brand’s technology forward – it’s more connected in various ways, offers a more sophisticated voice assistant and offers more personalisation.

How BMW announced its iDrive v8, aka BMW OS8īMW officially announced its iDrive version 8 back in spring 2021 – it’s the new operating system that will be used in every new car from the brand, starting with the all-electric iX SUV. Read on for our news of when BMW OS8 was first revealed in March 2021

#Bmw idrive versions android#

Operating System 8 integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto more deeply than we’ve seen before Pin-sharp screens change colour scheme with drive mode easy menu system, too, but we miss physical heating controls But please, can we have heated seat buttons back? BMW OS 8: how it worksįamiliar iDrive rotary controller is more than just a throwback – it’s often easier than the touchscreen for making adjustments Version 8.0 is a worthwhile iDrive upgrade, largely dodging gimmicks in favour of a combination of slick visuals and intuitive interaction.

And the voice assistant stumbles over some simple commands unless they’re phrased in a specific way. The loss of physical heating and ventilation controls, including those for the heated seats, is a backwards step. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, as is increasingly normal, but here they’re integrated in the best way we’ve ever seen – with maps viewable on the instrument panel as if they were part of BMW’s own software. You’ll be able to pay for parking or charging directly from the map, and over-the-air updates ensure you’ll always have the latest version. The factory sat-nav will learn your habits, anticipating the destination you’re heading to based on past behaviour – this works surprisingly well. Information is presented via pin-sharp screens, albeit with an excess of polygons. There’s a vertical menu system that makes as much sense on a touchscreen as it does on a scroll wheel.

Whether you’re familiar with previous BMW systems or it’s all new to you, you won’t take long to get up to speed, as it’s so intuitively arranged. However you navigate it, OS 8 is easy to find your way around.

But it’s our old friend the iDrive scroll wheel that’s the most welcome carry-over from the previous system, great for making adjustments on the move without taking your eyes off the road. Gesture control remains an option best ignored. You can go via the touchscreen, which feels the most natural for some interactions. You get to choose from four different ways of controlling various functions. No full-width hyperscreens here – what you get is a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central infotainment display, seamlessly joined to look like one ultra-wide screen. The first cars to be fitted with it are the electric iX and i4, and the 2-series Active Tourer.Īs flagship infotainment systems go, it’s discreet. Underpinning the latest evolution of iDrive is BMW’s Operating System 8 – a new generation of processors, software, displays and controls.