According to Bloomberg, Apple’s now-defunct self-driving car project once featured a backup control system reminiscent of a video game controller, replacing the traditional steering wheel.
Xbox-Like Controller
The backup control system, tested by CEO Tim Cook in 2020, bore a striking resemblance to the controller used with Xbox gaming consoles. This unique feature was incorporated into a prototype referred to as the “Bread Loaf” due to its minivan-like shape.
Purpose of the Controller
Designed primarily for emergency situations where the self-driving car encountered challenging navigation scenarios, the controller served as a backup mechanism. Apple’s objective was to achieve full autonomy for the vehicle, utilizing the controller only when the autonomous system struggled to navigate specific environments.
Project Evolution
While the “Bread Loaf” prototype showcased innovative design elements, including the unconventional control system, Apple ultimately abandoned its plans for the self-driving car project on February 27, after nearly a decade of development under the secretive “Project Titan.”
Shifting Strategies
Apple executives, including CEO Tim Cook, were impressed by the “Bread Loaf” prototype but recognized the challenges in developing sophisticated self-driving software. The company shifted its focus from aiming for Level 5 autonomy (full autonomy) to Level 2 autonomy, allowing temporary hands-off driving.
Financial Investment
Apple’s commitment to the self-driving car project was substantial, with an annual expenditure of approximately $1 billion. Despite significant investment and innovative designs, the project ultimately failed to materialize into a marketable product.
Apple’s Response
Apple did not provide a comment in response to inquiries made by Business Insider outside of regular business hours, leaving unanswered questions about the fate of its ambitious self-driving car endeavor.
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