Voice control system

The voice control system in the BMW 5 Series (VII Gen / G30 & G31) allows numerous vehicle functions to be controlled by spoken commands. This manual shows how voice commands are activated, used and adapted – including tips for optimal communication. The integration of support, server connection and personalization is particularly helpful.

Vehicle equipment

This chapter describes all standard, country-specific and optional equipment offered in the model series. It therefore also describes equipment that is not available in a given vehicle, for example due to the selected optional equipment or country variant. This also applies to safety-related functions and systems. When using the corresponding functions and systems, observe the applicable laws and regulations.

Principle

Most functions shown on the Control Display can be operated with spoken commands via the voice control system. The system supports input through voice prompts.

General

• Functions that can only be used while the vehicle is stationary cannot be operated via the voice control system.
• The system includes a special microphone on the driver's side.
• ›...‹ indicates commands for the voice control system in the owner's manual.

Prerequisites for operation

For voice commands to be recognized, a language supported by the voice control system must be set via iDrive.

Set language.

Speak commands

Activate voice control

1. 1
   Press button on steering wheel.
2. 2
   Wait for the signal tone.
3. 3
   Speak command.

The symbol in the instrument cluster indicates that the voice control system is active.

If necessary, no further commands are possible; in this case, operate the function via iDrive.

End voice control

Press button on steering wheel or say ›Cancel‹.

Possible commands

Most menu items on the Control Display can be spoken as commands.

Commands from other menus can also be spoken.

Some list entries, e.g. phone book entries, can also be selected via the voice control system. Speak list entries exactly as they are shown in the respective list.

Display of possible commands

The following is shown in the upper area of the Control Display:

• Some possible commands of the current menu.
• Some possible commands from other menus.
• Voice recognition status
• encrypted connection not available.

Voice control system help

• Have possible voice commands announced: ›Voice commands‹.
• Have information on how the voice control system works announced: ›General voice control‹.
• Have help for the current menu announced: ›Help‹.

Example: Calling up sound settings

The commands of the menu items are spoken as they are also selected via the controller.

1. 1
   If necessary, switch on audio output Entertainment.
2. 2
   Press button on steering wheel.
3. 3
   ›Media and Radio‹
4. 4
   ›Sound‹

Settings

Set voice dialog

You can set whether the system uses the standard dialog or a short variant.

With the short variant of the voice dialog, the system's announcements are shortened.

Via iDrive:

1. 1
   "My Vehicle"
2. 2
   "iDrive settings"
3. 3
   "Language"
4. 4
   "Voice dialog:"
5. 5
   Select the desired setting.

Select input language.

For some languages, the input language can be selected.

Via iDrive:

1. 1
   "My Vehicle"
2. 2
   "iDrive settings"
3. 3
   "Language"
4. 4
   "Input language:"
5. 5
   Select the desired setting.

Activate server-based speech recognition

Server-based speech recognition enables dictation, natural destination input and improves the quality of speech recognition.

For use, data is transmitted to a service provider over an encrypted connection and stored there locally.

1. 1
   "My Vehicle"
2. 2
   "iDrive settings"
3. 3
   "Language"
4. 4
   "Server-based speech recognition"

Speaking during voice output

It is possible to respond while the voice control system is prompting. This function can be deactivated if prompts are frequently interrupted unintentionally, e.g. by background noise or speaking.

Via iDrive:

1. 1
   "My Vehicle"
2. 2
   "iDrive settings"
3. 3
   "Language"
4. 4
   "Speak during voice output"

Adjust volume

Turn the volume button during the voice prompt until the desired volume is set.

• The volume setting is retained even if the volume of other audio sources is changed.
• The volume is saved for the currently used driver profile.

Information for emergency calls

Do not use the voice control system for emergency calls.

In stressful situations, speech and voice pitch may change. This unnecessarily delays the establishment of a phone connection.

Instead, use the SOS button 335 in the area of the interior mirror.

Ambient conditions

• Speak commands, digits and letters fluently, with normal volume, emphasis and speed.
• Always speak commands in the language of the voice control system.
• When selecting a radio station, use the common pronunciation of the station name, ideally as it is shown on the Control Display.

›[...] station ...‹, e.g. station Classic Radio.

Keep doors, windows and the glass roof closed to avoid disturbing noises.

Avoid background noises in the vehicle while speaking.

The voice control system of the BMW 5 G30/G31 simplifies operation of many functions and ensures a maximum level of safety. Clear commands can be used to control navigation, telephony or entertainment without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

Intelligent speech recognition and the option to individually adjust the dialogue style make the system an indispensable companion in everyday driving. This makes every journey more comfortable and safer.

FAQ

Question 1: Can I already speak commands during voice output?

Answer: Yes, the system allows this. If desired, however, this function can be deactivated.

Question 2: Does the voice control system support multiple languages?

Answer: Yes, a supported language used for commands can be set via iDrive.