In the build-up to the new MINI Cooper Electric and Countryman Electric reveal next Friday, we’re getting an sneak peek of the center of it all: the MINI Circular Display (or as MINI calls it – the Interaction Unit). This round OLED display, born from a collaboration with Samsung Display Corporation, is set to be the first of its kind in the industry housing perhaps the most inventive interface we’ve seen in the automotive world.
Note: If you haven’t, read and watch our hands-on review of the new Circular Display and it’s incredible digital experience.
For their showcase at gamescom, MINI has chosen a cutting-edge laboratory theme. Nestled within this MINI Lab, you’ll find a colossal incubator tank, evoking memories of beloved science fiction, gaming legends, and anime classics.
Notably, MINI takes the spotlight as the primary sponsor of the gamescom merchandise area for the second time running, and they’re also adding their flair to the Cosplay Awards at the globe’s most massive gaming extravaganza. From August 23 to 27, 2023, gamescom will play host to hordes of passionate gamers from across the globe, spanning a colossal 230,000 square meters of gaming nirvana at Koelnmesse.
Embracing the World of Technology. When it comes to glimpsing the future and its technological wonders, few genres rival the immersive experience of science fiction. MINI is steering this year’s narrative in a direction that complements their past playful endeavors. You might recall last year’s MINI Concept Aceman, which introduced the world to the whimsical Pokémon Mode.
Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI, enthuses, “MINI’s affinity with gamescom is a natural fit because MINI is all about creating experiences and fostering a vibrant community. Last year, our spotlight was on the MINI Concept Aceman. This year, we’re shifting gears to put the spotlight on the technological masterpiece within our new MINI family—the round OLED display. And we’re doing it through a playful, digital experience. Science fiction, as an homage to the future, sets the stage perfectly for our innovations.”
At the core of the new MINI family lies the iconic MINI Interaction Unit, showcasing the cutting-edge OLED technology from Samsung Display Corporation. MINI and Samsung Display are at the forefront of advancing mobility and user interface solutions, all centered around enhancing the human experience.
MINI is synonymous with individuality, and the MINI Interaction Unit is a testament to that ethos. Depending on your chosen Experience Mode, the interface and experience transforms, offering various designs and content. One of our favorite Experience modes is the Personal Mode, which allows drivers to radically change the look of the experience. In this mode, you can set an image (via your phone) as the backdrop of the central display via the MINI app, creating a personalized cockpit ambiance. Visitors to gamescom will have the chance to explore these modes firsthand at the MINI booth.
But MINI’s engagement doesn’t stop there. They’re not just inviting gamescom attendees to their MINI Lab in Hall 5.2; they’re also embracing the cosplay community. At the Cosplay Awards, the renowned cosplayer Ben Bergmann, known as Maul Cosplay, will represent MINI as a judge. The winners of this competition will score an exclusive invitation to MINI UNITED—the grand launch party for the new MINI family.
Up Next: IAA MOBILITY. For gamescom visitors, there’s an extra treat—a glimpse of the forthcoming MINI family. At IAA MOBILITY 2023 in Munich, this very center display will be seamlessly integrated into the new models, acting as their nervous system, and bringing them to life, just like something out of a mesmerizing science fiction epic.
Samsung makes some damn fine displays. Even Apple uses them for the iPhone.
Can’t wait to see this in person!