The German automaker has released teasers for the latest BMW gesture control system which will preview at the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show next week. The BMW gesture control system uses hand gestures for basic controls and was first demonstrated in the 2015 BMW 7 series.
The latest version – named “AirTouch” transforms the vehicle display into a touchscreen which can be operated using a handful of gestures without actually making contact with the display surface. Operations currently available include navigating menus which essentially reduces the number of clicks/steps required to perform a certain function.
AirTouch technology works through sensors that monitor hand movements between the central console and interior mirror. A button placed on the left of the steering wheel and on the side of the door area (for passengers) for easy access is activated when a menu option is available. This enables passengers to use both hands to quickly navigate through the menu and select required actions.
AirTouch will probably debut on the i8 Spyder which is rumored to be the demo vehicle for the new system.