BMW Concept Takes a Hands-Off Approach to User Interfaces

BMW AG’s concept “Vision Car” features an updated gesture recognition system that allows users to control various functions with hand movements. The carmaker will demonstrate the system, dubbed AirTouch, next week at the CES (formerly known as the Consumer Electronics Show) conference in Las Vegas.

BMW currently offers a gesture recognition system developed by Delphi Automotive plc in its top-of-the-line 7 Series sedan. Delphi plans to show a more sophisticated system at CES, but it isn’t clear if it will be the same as the technology showcased in BMW’s concept vehicle.

As with the current gesture-recognition technology, AirTouch uses sensors to record hand movements made in the air space between the central console and the interior mirror. The updated system enables both front-seat occupants to quickly navigate through a menu with gestures. They confirm their inputs with a button on the steering wheel or passenger door. The system also reduces the number of steps needed to make a selection, according to BMW.

Media reports speculate the Vision Car concept itself will be a refreshed version of BMW’s 2012 i8 Spyder concept. The carmaker describes the new concept as a peek at future Bimmer interiors and user interfaces.