MINI has no plans to ditch its circular touchscreen despite usability concerns

MINI isn't ready to give up its signature circular touchscreen, even if the design isn't always the most practical.

Alexander Brockhoff, Managing Director of MINI Australia, recently confirmed that the brand intends to retain the round display, describing it as an important part of MINI's identity. Instead of switching to a conventional rectangular screen, MINI plans to keep refining its infotainment system and improving how drivers interact with it.

Why the circular display?

Circular instruments have been a defining feature of MINI interiors for decades. As dashboards have become increasingly digital, the brand has carried that familiar design into its latest infotainment system.

The current generation features a 9.4-inch circular OLED touchscreen, which brings together vehicle settings, navigation and entertainment functions in one display.

For MINI, the shape is more than a styling choice. Brockhoff believes the circular display helps distinguish the brand from its competitors, making it a feature worth preserving even as the underlying technology evolves.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto don't fill the screen

The unusual shape does come with some compromises, particularly when using smartphone connectivity.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are designed primarily for rectangular screens. On MINI's circular display, they appear within a rectangular window rather than filling the entire round surface.

MINI's own navigation system, by contrast, can use the full circular display, giving the map more room on screen.

Another concern is the reduced number of physical controls.

The latest MINI models have moved many functions into the touchscreen, including climate control settings. Traditional physical climate buttons have been removed, although a physical volume knob remains.

That means drivers may need to navigate touchscreen menus for tasks they previously handled with a button or dial. While the digital layout keeps the dashboard looking clean, it can be less convenient for drivers who prefer controls they can operate by touch without looking away from the road.

MINI plans improvements

Despite these concerns, MINI has given no indication that it intends to replace the circular touchscreen.

The company says it will continue improving the system's technology and integration, although it has not announced specific interface changes or plans to bring back more physical controls.

MINI's decision highlights a familiar challenge for carmakers: keeping distinctive design features without compromising everyday usability.

The circular display certainly gives MINI's cabin a look of its own. The question now is whether future software updates can make smartphone connectivity and frequently used controls as intuitive as the design is distinctive.

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