BMW has unveiled a new operating system X based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP)
In addition to the BMW has introduced a full-width panoramic windscreen system for Neue Klasse cars, BMW unveiled its new Operating System X (full name: "BMW Operating System X") at CES 2025. It represents the next iteration of the OS used in many of BMW's existing models, and is entirely in-house developed by the Bavarian company.
Here's What We Know
BMW Operating System X, like the current BMW Operating System 9, is based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) software stack. It offers even more upgrade and modernisation options than its predecessor, making it both future-ready and backwards compatible. BMW promises that OS version X will support cars equipped with the new BMW Panoramic iDrive for an "extended period of time". It doesn't give an exact timeline, though.
Stephan Durach, senior vice president of Connected Company BMW Group, revealed that BMW Operating System X and BMW Panoramic iDrive were made possible by a big technological leap forward. He added that the next-generation OS offers intuitive operation, emotionally engaging experiences and a high level of personalisation.
The personalisation possibilities of BMW Panoramic iDrive. Photo: BMW
BMW X brings together BMW Panoramic Vision, the optional BMW 3D Head-Up Display, the centre display and the multifunction steering wheel in such a way that physical and digital experiences merge. For example, an incoming call initially triggers graphics on the BMW Panoramic Vision. At the same time, a symbol on the corresponding steering wheel button, which was not previously visible, is highlighted in green, indicating the option to accept the call by pressing the button or to reject it by swiping a finger on the right side of the steering wheel.
As another example, when a navigation destination is entered via touch control or voice command, the BMW 3D Head-Up Display displays route alerts and the BMW Panoramic Vision displays additional information about roads and junctions. The centre display can show a full map overview at any time.
With BMW Operating System X, the Panoramic Vision displays can be adapted to personal preferences. In addition, drivers are now able to select their own settings for driving attributes such as response and steering characteristics in My Mode "Personal". What's more, user-selected images can be loaded as backgrounds for the central display, while ambient lighting colours and user interface design are customisable according to their specific preferences.
BMW Operating System X carries over the third-party application integration capabilities from the previous generation of the infotainment system. The BMW ConnectedDrive Store currently contains more than 60 apps worldwide for BMW Operating System 9. The selection will continue to grow, for example with productivity apps such as the Zoom video conferencing service.
When will it appear in production cars?
BMW Operating System X, BMW Panoramic Vision and BMW 3D Head-Up Display will debut in the first production car on the Neue Class platform. This will be the all-electric BMW Neue Klasse X, which is expected to debut later in 2025.
Source: BMW
