Doggedly criticized iDrive, the central
control system in many BMWs, has now received a major update and the
newest version allows users to skip to functions more quickly. In BMW’s
officially fourth version of iDrive, they have replaced the
compass-based user interface with a traditional vertical list and
branching-tree structure. This makes for faster navigation. Other than
that, many other new features have been included. The iDrive control
knob is still positioned ahead of the center armrest and it comes
surrounded by a cluster of seven buttons. The seven buttons include
access to CD, main menu, phone, radio, navigation, options screen, and
the “Go Back” button. The voice recognition system now enjoys a faster
computer processor and 80 GB of hard drive that ensures faster
operations. The engineers at BMW still preferred a 8.8-inch widescreen
non-touchscreen display for the iDrive system as they think it’s more
easy and safe to use the knob.
You will
also find a connector for your iPod in the armrest, and the track,
album and artist information will appear on the iDrive screen. You can
also rip CDs directly to the hard drive or copy digital music files
from any device hooked to the USB port of the new version. The iDrive
4.0 is available for an extra $2000 in the 2009 3 Series and 1 Series
BMWs.
Via: Gizmodo/NYTimes