autoevolution
 

BMW to Introduce Augmented Reality Glasses in Shanghai, to Help Make Parking Easier

 BMW is taking yet another step in trying to both protect its own cars but also helping out people in stressful situations. While for me and you, parking is a rather easy job, for some people it involves heavy sweating, a raised pulse and tense nerves. Not anymore.
BMW Augmented Reality 1 photo
Photo: bmw
 
According to the Financial Times, the German company is currently working on augmented reality glasses that would help out in such cases. Developed in Silicon Valley, they’re supposed to be basically able to turn your car’s rear pillars and boot invisible, allowing you to actually see the cars and obstacles surrounding you.
 
Sounds familiar? Well, the same concept was introduced by Jaguar not too long ago and other manufacturers have had a go with similar tech in the past.
 
The same source claims that this new tech will be unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show in April and that it’s intended for more than one use. Apparently, they could also be used to show a bunch of useful information while driving (like the speed, speed limit and so on, stuff reserved for the HUD usually) but also when leaving the car.
 
BMW has been adamant in trying to get people to use cars less these days. Weird, huh? With their i3 and i8 eco-friendly cars, the navigation system can be connected to your phone and show you alternative means of transportation, like public transit. Therefore, if you run out of battery, you can get to your meeting without too much trouble.
 
Well, the same principle works here. You can enter a destination in your car’s navigation system and the coordinates will also be sent to your glasses, showing you the fastest way if you want to park your car and continue on foot.
 
How does it work?
 
It’s a similar device to Google’s Glass actually. For parking jobs, the car’s surround camera system will help out, sending footage to your lenses, showing you what’s on the outside of your BMW. The system already works well with the onboard screen but for some people, it might still be faulty and hard to use.
 
On the other side of things, for useful information displayed on the glasses, the car will simply connect to the device via Bluetooth and send the relevant data your way.
 
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories