BMW will introduce the tenth-generation iDrive, often called iDrive X, on the Neue Klasse platform later this yr. The iX3 SUV would be the first automobile to get the upgraded system, however ultimately all the firm’s fashions, together with its inner combustion engine automobiles, will shift to iDrive X.
The latter marks a pivotal second in BMW’s digitization technique, which has to this point lagged behind that of upstarts like Tesla, Rivian, NIO, and Xiaomi. Being a hardware-focused firm, the Bavarian automaker was a little bit late to acknowledge the significance of software-defined automobiles, a reality mirrored in its tenth-place rating within the Wards Intelligence 2023 SDV Examine (Tesla, Rivian, NIO, and Lucid led the checklist).
However, most startups face analysis and growth (R&D) constraints, so BMW has time to catch up. Moreover, as we noticed with Tesla, an overemphasis on software program may additionally result in neglect in high quality and reliability. In spite of everything, the EV producer acquired a below-average score in J.D. Energy’s 2025 Automobile Dependability Examine (VDS) and ranked third-last in its 2024 Preliminary High quality Examine (IQS).
What iDrive X Means for BMW
Nonetheless, provided that SDVs finally symbolize a $650 billion worth alternative, and with 90 % of future automotive options anticipated to be differentiated through software program, it’s important for BMW to get the brand new iDrive proper. And for what it’s price, the early demonstrations do look promising.
Certainly, with its superior shows, Amazon-powered AI assistant, and improved interface, iDrive X gives a extra intuitive and customized expertise than iDrive 9. The system’s spotlight is the pillar-to-pillar Panoramic Imaginative and prescient, which integrates seamlessly with the 3D head-up show (HUD), revamped middle console, and multi-function steering wheel. Moreover, the Android-based software program can have extra apps than its predecessor (e.g., Zoom), together with continued assist for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Notably, the Chinese language iDrive X will differ from these in Western markets. It is because China is one main automotive market the place software program is valued extra extremely than {hardware}, with practically 60 % of consumers prepared to shift manufacturers for higher connectivity options. Due to this fact, automakers there want to supply higher digital companies and apps, particularly for leisure.
Going Past CarPlay and Android Auto?
With iDrive X, BMW additionally hopes to ultimately cut back its reliance on CarPlay/Android Auto, aiming to realize higher management over the dashboard and the related business alternatives. Keep in mind that the Munich-based automaker was at all times hesitant to undertake CarPlay/Android Auto, because it wished to construct its personal automotive-tech ecosystem.
Nonetheless, virtually 80 % of automotive patrons is not going to take into account manufacturers with out CarPlay, whereas the vast majority of BMW’s rivals, together with Mercedes-Benz and Audi, provide Android Auto. Therefore, BMW hasn’t performed what Normal Motors did — which was to remove the 2 apps altogether. As a substitute, it has constructed a extra holistic platform that features CarPlay/Android with out being completely depending on them.
Finally, no carmaker can construct its infotainment system completely by itself, so BMW will at all times have to have a harmonious relationship with tech giants like Google, Amazon or Apple. The specter of getting cannibalized by them could be very a lot actual, contemplating the monopolistic tendencies of Silicon Valley. However that’s a threat BMW and different OEMs should take with a purpose to preserve their prospects pleased.
After all, in a really perfect world, BMW wish to match Tesla and Rivian. Like GM, additionally they exclude CarPlay/Android Auto, but the 2 startups haven’t confronted the identical backlash as their prospects are content material with the native infotainment techniques. Nonetheless, to realize that, the Munich-based carmaker might want to additional advance its SDV capabilities, even past iDrive X and the Neue Klasse platform.
