BMW iDrive Redesign | Role: Interaction Design Director, Project Lead, Client Relationship Lead
This project refined the user experience and physical controller of BMW’s iDrive user interface. Interface approaches from other contexts were explored, and the work shaped the current version of iDrive that continues to serve users well in today’s BMW vehicles.
Easing Access, Reducing Complexity, and Building on the Familiar
In redesigning BMW’s iDrive controller, the most frequently accessed functions were given physical buttons. The original circular interface had eight options along the periphery of the screen. Menu options were accessed by rotating the iDrive controller and pressing down on it to select a menu option. This approach was replaced by a four-mode menu, thus reducing the amount of mental load on users.
A Simplified Menu Structure
Reducing the main menu to four options minimizes the complexity of the interface and the mental load placed on drivers.
Helping Users Maintain Orientation
A menu breadcrumb (blade slices) reveals a portion of the prior menu. This helps keep users oriented by indicating how deep they are within the menu.
Exploring the Familiar
To enhance the approachability of the interface, digital elements familiar to users from other contexts were explored. These included scrolling lists, radio buttons, check boxes, menu items, sliders, and modal dialog boxes.
Prototyping the Experience