Since the original introduction of iDrive in the previous generation 5-BMW 5 Series Gen.5Germany, 2003 > 2010203 versions
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and 7-seriesBMW 7 Series Gen.4Germany, 2001 > 200823 versions
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, BMWBMWGermany, 1918 > present87 models
8471 photos
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has slowly been upgrading it to keep it as one of the benchmark systems of the industry. The newest suite of upgrades include a new navigation system with 3d rendering, dictation for SMS messages, improved iDrive, an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and integrating smartphone applications into the car's systems. 

BMW's new Navigation system Professional has a simplified layout with fewer elements on screen at once. It also added a 3d graphics chip to allow for 3d, topographical maps. The system has a split screen when entering addresses. On one side, the occupant is adding in the data, and on the other screen the map is zooming in on that location as it is entered. This makes the driver more certain that they are entering in the correct data. When the driver is within 300m of the destination, the view switches to a bird's eye perspective to make it easier to know when to turn. The iDrive controller allows occupants to turn and tilt the map to orient it in the most useful way. 

Drivers can now have two phones connected to iDrive simultaneously, and the system will combine both phones' contacts into a single list to make them searchable. 

For better entertainment, iDrive comes with a 20gb hard drive. If drivers like what they are listening to, they can opt for the system to listen to more like it from the hard drive. They can also add songs to their favorites. 

BMW has added a multi-touch interface to the iDrive controller. The 45mm wide surface can be used for selecting options, handwriting recognition and navigating maps. It will be available in China first starting in July 2012 and then roll out to other markets. 

Starting in November, buyers will be able to add an in-car, Wi-Fi hot spot to their cars. Buyers will just need an LTE-capable SIM card to install in the system. It fits in the center console, and even older BMW's will be able to accept the system. BMW says that the LTE system will by incorporated into iDrive in the future for in-car video and music streaming. 

The system can also interface with specific apps running on a user's smartphone including Google and Facebook. It will expand to Android phones in 2013. 

Voice control has also been improved in the new system. It will take dictation and voice commands have been expanded. The system recognizes full sentences and can activate several systems at one time. 

The Navigation system Professional will be available on BMWs in China first in July, but it will roll out to Europe and the US later in the year.