BMW Reveals Radical Windshield Display, New OS at CES 2025

One of the most significant unveils at CES 2025 was the new Panoramic iDrive tech that will appear in all future BMW models.

The set-up, which features a striking Panoramic Vision display that is projected across the entire width of the windshield, is complemented by the company’s new Operating System X software.

Panoramic iDrive is set to appear on production models before the end of the year, with the new iX3 electric SUV scheduled to be the first to benefit as it leads the way for BMW’s next-generation “Neue Klasse” models.

Four key elements underpin the concept. They include a centrally positioned touchscreen angled toward the driver that features voice control, a new steering wheel with a number of buttons that offer haptic feedback and a 3D head-up display. But it was the fourth, the Panoramic Vision display, that captured most attention at CES.

Panoramic Vision stretches from A-pillar to A-pillar and allows content to be projected onto a black printed surface in the lower section of the windshield, which is visible to all occupants. Key driving info is directly in front of the driver, while the rest of the display features six customizable widgets, which can accommodate the likes of mapping, weather info and apps such as Spotify, as per the driver’s preference.

Related:Zeekr to Use Nvidia Superchip; Deliver Self-Driving Taxis to Waymo: CES 2025

The optional 3D head-up display, meanwhile, sits above Panoramic Vision, and projects details such as routing and automated driving information in the driver’s field of vision.

Amid all the new additions, however, there is also one notable departure – the familiar iDrive rotary controller which has been a feature of BMWs for nearly a quarter of a century is being axed. The firm claims its data shows that the dial is being used more infrequently than ever.

Stay up to date with all the latest CES news — subscribe to our free newsletter!

BMW’s latest OS has been created in-house and is based on an Android Open Source Project software stack. Bosses say its expanded intelligence allows all the elements of the new Panoramic Drive system to work seamlessly together, with the ability for over-the-air updates providing scope for further evolution.

Stephen Durach, senior vice president, explained: “It offers intuitive operation, emotionally engaging experiences and specific personalization. The new BMW iDrive with Operating System X demonstrates the potential of a software-defined vehicle.”

The new OS also endows the BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant – which has been upgraded with the integration of Large Language Models – with even more functionality.  This includes the ability, for example, to proactively suggest taking advantage of the driver-assistance systems if they are being underused. Plus, BMW claims the OS will also allow even greater integration of third-party apps, with Zoom video conferencing among those that will be offered.

Related:Honda Unveils New EVs, Reveals More on Autonomous Future

Also at CES, BMW confirmed an extended partnership with Here Technologies to supply AI-powered mapping that will facilitate a range of automated driving functions.