Finnish tech firm Basemark, which specialises in automotive software solutions, has launched new augmented reality (AR) technologies for German automotive giant BMW Group.
The Helsinki-based firm has developed an AR-powered video overlay application for some of BMW’s latest vehicles, leading to its instalment in the automaker’s BMW iX.
We’re proud to announce our work on ground-breaking AR applications for the BMW Group, now available in the new iX. Read more on today’s press release. https://t.co/pizrvmspFF#AR #AugmentedReality #BMW #iX #SoftwareDefinedCar pic.twitter.com/gVcpDpSGyg
— Basemark (@BasemarkLtd) February 9, 2022
Combining computer vision and vehicle sensor data, the new solution will provide AR-based information overlays on the navigation screens of the vehicle’s Central Information Display (CIP), which alerts people on their physical surroundings while driving.
According to the XR firm, AR technologies increased the “ease, accuracy, and safety of navigation,” providing drivers with assisted navigation features such as suggested manoeuvres and lane recommendations using information processed by front-facing cameras on the vehicle.
Split screen visuals are displayed on the CIP, allowing drivers to see real-time camera footage along with SatNav overlays, namely in urban driving and motorway settings.
Tero Sarkkinen, Chief Executive and Founder of Basemark, said the BMW Group’s AR-powered apps “set a new standard for driver experience, comfort, and safety,” adding,
“We also collaborated to improve the BMW Group’s asset creation and delivery process, empowering both designers and developers, resulting in reducing time spent on development. The work also included providing support for concept exploration and simulation development of AR concept features”
XR Technologies Innovate Automotive Sector
The news comes as automakers embrace AR solutions for their upcoming car models. Luxury automaker Pirinfarina incorporated AR-embedded windshields in its Teorema concept vehicle with Swiss firm Wayray’s technologies, allowing drivers greater focus on roads while navigating.
Infineon Technologies also released a micro-electromechanical (MEMS) scanner to boost AR automotive heads up displays (AR-HUDs), reducing device form factors and power consumption rates.
In automotive design, Varjo Technologies, another Helsinki-based tech company, developed a cloud computing platform for collaborating on projects. US automaker Rivian signed on as a member of the company’s Early Access Programme, allowing its teams to work remotely on complex automotive designs with Varjo’s mixed reality (MR) headsets powered by the innovative edge computing solution.
