How to use Gesture Controls on BMW X3

BMW’s optional Gesture Control feature on BMW X3 enables especially convenient operation of selected iDrive functions. With this feature you can operate your touch display without touching it. You just let your hands do the talking.

BMW X3, Third Generation G01 – (photo by BMW)

A camera in the roof lining scans an area in front of the dashboard, gestures performed in this area are detected by the system. Depending on the equipment, various functions can be operated.


Accept incoming calls

To accept incoming calls, move the index finger back and forth in the direction of the center display screen.

Reject incoming calls

To reject incoming calls, swipe the hand across the breadth of the control display towards the passenger side.

Increase/decrease speaker volume

To increase the volume, move the hand with a forward extended index finger in a clockwise circular motion. The gesture will be recognized after approximately one circular movement. To reduce the volume, move the hand slowly with a forward extended index finger in a counter clockwise circular motion – here too the gesture will be recognized after approximately one circular movement.

Move bird’s eye view camera

If equipped with 360-degree bird’s eye view (Surround View Package), it is possible to move the camera. Make a pinching movement with thumb and index finger and move the hand horizontally to the left or right.

Configure a gesture

You can also set a personally definable gesture. A function such as, changing radio stations, can be chosen from a selection via iDrive and performed with the personal gesture.

The technology for gesture recognition

The technology behind the gesture control is relatively simple: unlike pure proximity sensors, which often work with infrared technology, manufacturers almost always rely on 2D or 3D cameras for gesture recognition. They are usually mounted on the headliner and monitor a certain area, usually above the center tunnel between the driver and front passenger. All movements in this area are recorded, the computer then compares the gesture with stored movement patterns and knows what to do.


BMW showed its gesture control for the first time in the new BMW 7 Series at the 2015 IAA. There are five hand signals. If the driver does it in front of the center console, the camera will recognize it. For example, if you rotate your index finger to the right, the music becomes louder and to the left it becomes quieter. A lot more gestures would be possible, but whether they make sense is another question.

Video demonstration of Gesture Controls on BMW X3

The automobile manufacturer from Munich is continuously expanding the number of swiping gestures: With a swiping gesture, on the other hand, you can reject a call or cancel the traffic announcement on the radio. Sometimes certain gestures can also be assigned individual functions.

In order to learn the sequence of hand movements, the infotainment display shows the appropriate gesture every time a button is pressed, if available. You can quickly learn the most important hand movements to operate the radio and music without touching and distraction.

Author: Nabeel K
Email: nabeel@wheelsjoint.com



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