For the fiftieth time, CES has lured IT freaks and nerds, who used to be called computer fans, to Las Vegas. Computers, smartphones, tablets, notebooks and wearables in all variations have joined televisions, radios and speakers. Not only the big names such as Panasonic, Sony, Samsung and LG are showing their innovations, but also manufacturers of computer components such as Intel, Nvidia and AMD as well as countless small companies and start-ups used the city in the Nevada desert this year to meet up with to present their products. In addition, the visitors, by the way only trade visitors and journalists, immerse themselves in digital worlds with reality glasses, have the latest craziness explained, fight for victories of all kinds through virtual backdrops, climb the peaks of eight-thousanders or sink into the deep sea. Drones of all sizes are buzzing around, software and highly sensitive sensors ensure that they can move autonomously anywhere at any time. The latest craze are “selfie drones” that automatically rotate around the user and take pictures of him and his activities. Beautiful new world. But the pure entertainment industry has long since faced competition.
In 2017, the focus for cars is on the networking of technology and the connection with artificial intelligence
Automakers have become increasingly established at CES in recent years and occupy the subject of electronics and digitization. Ever faster becoming electrically powered super sports cars like the new American - Chinese newcomer Faraday Future With gigantic 1050 HP and extra large batteries, the question of a longer-term supply of lithium is slowly emerging. While there have been new operating systems such as gesture control or touch panels that have been presented to the amazed audience in recent years, the networking of technology in connection with artificial intelligence is the focus of the CES in 2017. ZF and cooperation partner Nvidia want cars see, think and act to let. The steering wheel and cockpit are becoming obsolete, but BMW continues to adhere to them in its i Inside Future study. Via the new control system called HoloActiveTouch, information from the on-board computer or navigation system is mirrored in the air next to the steering wheel and operated using gestures. A slight vibration in the fingertips confirms the entry. A scenario without mechanical and haptic experiences, clinical and cool. As a consolation, natural wood, fresh moss, woolen blankets and a bookshelf in the vehicle interior should offer a little analogue life. Visions that, according to BMW, should not come true before 2021.
BMW shows what you can do with your free time in a self-driving car
Even now, and in the real world, you can take your hands off the wheel for a long time in a self-driving prototype of a “five” on the highway behind Las Vegas. But what should the driver do with the artificially gained free time when his attention is no longer required. For example, by pointing to a sight on the razor-sharp and very realistic display, he can get extensive information about it, be reminded of appointments saved on his own smartphone and reserve a table with the nearest Thai person in advance using voice control via Microsoft's Cortana. Of course, shopping is even closer. For “Service on Route”, BMW connects its Open Mobility Cloud with Amazon Prime Now and the navigation system. You can place your order from the car using the Microsoft voice service and be directed to the optimal pick-up point on the planned route. Pretty best friends, the car and its passenger.
Text: Solveig Grewe Photos: Solveig Grewe and Jan Gleitsmann