A new patent application recently filed by Volkswagen in Germany reveals a rather interesting approach to controlling vehicle functions. This system combines eye-tracking technology with a universal control button integrated into the steering wheel.

Volkswagen has been granted an interesting patent

According to the patent details, an eye-tracking sensor is positioned right in the center of the dashboard. To use basic vehicle functions, the driver must first direct their gaze to the desired feature.

Then, they can activate that function by pressing a single button on the steering wheel. To activate the wipers, simply glance at the wiper control and then press the button.

In its patent application, Volkswagen argues that the increasing number of functions in today’s vehicles leads to either complex menu structures or numerous physical buttons, which distract drivers. From this perspective, the system aims to reduce complexity.

However, instead of solving one distraction problem, this concept could potentially create another. Instead of removing buttons entirely, the system constantly attempts to guess drivers’ intentions through their gaze.

For now, this technology is not expected to be used in production vehicles in the near future. Volkswagen is already pursuing a more traditional approach, pursuing a return to basic function buttons and under-screen controls on the steering wheel.

The recently unveiled ID.Every1 concept even showcased these physical buttons. This eye-tracking control system currently stands as an experimental idea in the company’s research and development pipeline, rather than a realistic integration.