Increased Functionality Coming to BMW iDrive
Good news for those among us who love BMW’s much-maligned iDrive user interface; according to enthusiast web space Bimmer File, iDrive is set to get a whole load of new functionality in upcoming applications.
BMW is aiming to give customers a completely customizable driving experience, by adding iDrive options that make the current system look downright primitive by comparison. The Bimmer File list is pretty comprehensive, naming seventy odd functions under the headings of Interior Entertainment, Vehicle Safety, and Information & Service/Trip Logs. Among the more frivolous functions are a feature that lets one order BMW logo apparel, a sound effects menu, and the ability to produce various horn noises (as far as we can tell no “Duke Boys
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Comments
Iain
Complete waste of time and money - imagine the problems with this lot once the car is out of warranty. Why doesn't BMW spend the money upgrading the quality/perception of its interiors?
Tom
I like the feature to be able to transmit it through a key fob. Great idea!
Mark
Needlessly complicated and ultimately useless gadgets: This is "luxury" today.
No longer can BMW (and other luxury brands) differentiate themselves enough with premium interiors, superior performance, better service, good quality, great looks, etc. Models and brands that cost a fraction of the "luxury" brands have matched and exceeded the traditionalists in many instances in these areas.
BMW and others saw this happening. They knew they needed to load up their cars with SOMETHING to differentiate their cars. The fact that 90% of their owners don't need or even know how to use this junk is humorous. The "luxury" brands have done a great job convincing people that these gadgets are worth the extra money and the many people WANT them. Too funny.
The Swiss watch makers are masters at this. They make the most overly complicated watches around that can't keep time better than a $40 atomic watch. They aren't selling better technology or performance, they are selling an inflated price tag and an image. The overly complicated nature of the watches is their justification for the inflated price tag.
Of course there's the whole branding thing with logos, exclusiveness, and ultimately snobbery, but that's another topic.
Mena
Mark,
Get used to it. When we move to all electric cars, gadgets will be all there is to differentiate between cars.
BruceinCary
BMW doesn't get it! KISS is what we want.
Steve
Hey, I don't mind iDrive at all. I think it's nice to have all the systems controlled by one, easy to operate wheel.
I understand the argument against increased complexity, but I don't wholly agree with it... Not for cars like these.