Already, 2015 is shaping up to be quite something in the consumer electronics space, smartphones are set to get a lot faster with vastly improved processors from the likes of Qualcomm and wearable technology looks set to come into its own. BMW is a car firm that’s never been afraid to experiment with new technology and over the years they’ve introduced new technologies into their vehicles and now, they’re embracing smartwatches in a big way. Next year, during CES 2015, BMW will show off a car that can park itself, under instruction from your smartwatch.
While BMW haven’t shared too many details just yet, it seems that this is going to be a Samsung exclusive, or at least that’s what it looks like from the Gear S being used in the picture. Of course, there’s a chance that this will work with Android Wear as well, but there’s more to it than just which smartwatch you’re using. The Remote Valet Parking Assistant as BMW has named it requires there to be a full map of the underground car park or space you’re looking to park in and while the automaker is saying this will do away with poor GPS signal in car park garages, it is going to limit the technology right from the start. The car in question is a BMW i3 outfitted with a laser guidance system, with four laser sensors that give the car a 360-degree look at what’s around it, thus allowing it to safely navigate a garage.
BMW have said that this can be overridden by the driver at any time and it’s more than just finding a space for you. The i3, when fitted with such technology, is said to be able to arrive at the exit of the garage ready and waiting for the driver when they’ve returned. In fact, you’ll be able to drop the car off and let it find a space for you, BMW’s own words are “the system will steer the vehicle independently through the levels, while the driver has already got out of the car and is on his way to a business appointment.” We’re guessing BMW doesn’t think women will use the technology, for whatever reason. Either way, there should be a full demonstration during next year’s CES in Las Vegas and smartwatch fans and advocates of wearable technology in general will no doubt be watching.