BMW discontinues little-known control featured in all motors for 9 years as new tech unveiled for first time
BMW is bidding farewell to a feature that debuted nearly a decade ago but never quite captured the attention of drivers.
The German automaker has announced it is discontinuing its gesture control feature, launched in 2015, in favour of a more advanced infotainment system.
This announcement was made during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas, where BMW showcased its new in car technology as part of its Neue Klassie lineup.
The decision to retire gesture control comes as the company shifts its focus to advanced voice-command systems and other state of the art features.
Launched with the 2015 7 Series, BMW’s gesture control allowed drivers to perform simple tasks like adjusting the radio volume or skipping a song by waving their hands.
At the time, the technology was seen as groundbreaking offering a futuristic way to interact with a car’s infotainment system.
However, despite it’s innovation, the feature failed to gain widespread popularity.
Few drivers consistently used the functionality, and it gradually became one of BMW’s lesser known offerings.
BMW’s new technology aims to simplify and enhance the driving experience.
The upcoming Neue Klasse models will feature the upgraded BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, allowing drivers to use voice commands for tasks like changing music, setting navigation, and adjusting vehicle settings.
This system is powered by BMW Operating System X and will be integated into all future models.
One highlight is the Panoramic iDrive, a sleek, next generation infotainment display that promises seamless interaction and a more immersive driving experience.
Frank Weber, a member of BMW’s Board of Management says , the updated system sets “the industry benchmark in a multimodal interaction.”
BMW acknowledges that gesture control, while innovative at launch, simply didn’t resonate with drivers as intended.
With voice control now offering a more intuitive and natural way to interact with the car, the automaker decided it was time to move on.
Webber says: “The foundations are provided by the new BMW Operating System X. With this advance, we are giving one of the world’s best and most comprehensive infotainment systems even greater capability.”
The first Neue Klasse model featuring the new system is set to debut later this year, with plans to roll out the technology across all future models.
While gesture control fades into history, BMW’s focus on cutting-edge innovation ensures that its vehicle remain at the forefront of the automotive industry.