As the automotive sector advances towards software-defined vehicles, Garmin has introduced its Unified Cabin architecture, emphasizing integration of generative AI, spatial positioning, and cross-device connectivity within a single high-performance system-on-chip (SoC). This approach highlights a shift from mere feature stacking to deep convergence of hardware and software for enhanced in-car experiences.
The architecture, demonstrated at CES 2026, reflects three key trends in smart cockpit development: centralized computing, spatial sensing with ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, and AI-driven environments. This development signals a move beyond hardware specifications toward creating intuitive and empathetic vehicle interiors through complex hardware-software interplay.
Unified Cabin built on optimized hardware consolidation
Central to Garmin's Unified Cabin is the optimization and consolidation of hardware. The architecture utilizes Qualcomm's SA8295P platform to control up to six separate displays, including instrument clusters and rear entertainment units, from a single chip. This design reduces the number of electronic control units (ECUs) and vehicle weight while addressing latency typically caused by coordinating multiple screens.
Real-time multimedia streaming across connected displays was demonstrated with advanced rendering compensation and bandwidth management, ensuring smooth content distribution. Recognizing future processing needs, Garmin plans to upgrade to next-generation platforms offering roughly fivefold performance enhancements, aiming to meet demands from AI workloads and high-resolution display outputs.
UWB spatial awareness advances in-cabin interaction
A significant feature of the Unified Cabin is shifting from traditional touch and visual controls to spatial awareness enabled by UWB technology. The system achieves centimeter-level accuracy in indoor positioning, automatically tracking occupants and connected devices to allocate control permissions and activate personalized settings based on seating location.
Bluetooth 6.0 enhancements complement spatial sensing by resolving multi-device pairing challenges via channel sounding, facilitating automatic "seat zone" identification for devices such as headphones and controllers. This represents progress toward an intent-aware in-car Internet of Things (IoT), reducing user effort in device management.
Generative AI transforms the human-machine interface
Garmin's integration of generative AI expands beyond voice assistants to actively transform the cabin environment. The system incorporates Meta's Llama LLM alongside Stable Diffusion's image-generation model to render dynamic 3D virtual themes responsive to drivers' voice commands.
A highlighted feature includes real-time AI-generated lighting that synchronizes virtual scenes with physical car models, achieving seamless interaction between virtual and real-world elements. The virtual assistant exhibits capabilities such as short- and long-term memory and multi-intent processing, allowing it to follow complex semantic instructions and execute functions like media playback through automated backend processing, independent of native app support.
Additionally, vehicle-linked wearables provide continuous physiological data, including heart rate and stress level monitoring. This input feeds into an adaptive system that modifies seat massage settings, climate control, and cabin lighting to maintain occupant comfort and respond to detected anomalies.
Contactless controls and safety-focused design
For contactless operation, Garmin demonstrated a wearable electromyography (EMG)-based wristband enabling gesture controls without physical contact or camera reliance. This method offers precise, low-power input, particularly suitable for rear-seat occupants and large cabins, and provides a natural interface alternative.
Safety remains integral to the system's design, with driver monitoring systems (DMS) and occupant monitoring systems (OMS) employed to detect distractions caused by secondary displays. In response, the system enforces dynamic display blocking and restricts certain functions, ensuring human-machine interactions remain within safe limits during driving.
Article edited by Jack Wu
