CES 2014: BMW i3 takes commands from a Galaxy Gear smartwatch
Everything is smart at CES -- watches, glasses, shoes, gloves -- so it’s not surprising to find intelligent cars.
BMW unveiled the i3, a concept electric vehicle, that communicates with a smartwatch, specifically, the Samsung Galaxy Gear.
In addition to displaying the car’s vitals, including battery status and driving range, the smartwatch can be used to navigate.
Users can send addresses from their smartphone contact list directly to the car’s built-in navigation system. Imagine how much time users will save not having to type in the address.
And drivers will also be able to take advantage of an in-car intermodal navigation service that looks at real-time traffic conditions, then lets users know if alternative modes of transportation are faster. The service is available for its new i3 and i8 electric vehicles as part of the BMW ConnectedDrive system.
The feature may be especially useful for Los Angeles drivers, who often get stuck in bumper to bumper traffic on the 101 highway. Also, if you select an alternative mode, the service will provide turn-by-turn directions to the nearest public transport station. It will also identify and serve up directions to available charging locations.
Read a full review of the electric car
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