Volkswagen Introduces In-Car Gaming with AirConsole Partnership

Volkswagen AG, the German manufacturer of passenger and commercial vehicles, motorcycles, engines and turbomachinery, has partnered with gaming platform AirConsole to bring in-car entertainment to passengers, particularly during downtime, such as charging stops or breaks during a journey. 

This collaboration will initially bring gaming to several Volkswagen models, including the ID.7, ID.5, ID.4, and ID.3 series, as well as the new Passat, Tiguan, Golf, and Golf Estate. 

Through the vehicle’s infotainment system, which acts as a gaming console, passengers can enjoy a variety of games with their smartphones doubling as controllers. This setup transforms the car into a mobile gaming hub, offering an innovative way for passengers to pass the time.

Launching initially in select European markets in mid-September, the AirConsole platform will allow passengers to engage in multiplayer gaming using their smartphones. 

The connection between the phone and the car is seamlessly established by scanning a QR code displayed on the vehicle’s infotainment screen. Once connected, players can dive into a gaming experience that involves the entire vehicle, as even rear-seat passengers can join in during stops.

Volkswagen is working to enhance its in-car experience, making travel more enjoyable by offering entertainment that can be shared among all passengers. 

The feature is expected to be a hit, especially for those long drives where keeping passengers entertained is often a challenge. By the end of 2024, Volkswagen plans to expand the range of available games and extend the service to additional European countries.

The AirConsole gaming experience is designed for casual gamers of all ages, ensuring that everyone in the vehicle can participate. The platform supports both solo and multiplayer modes, allowing for flexibility depending on the number of passengers. Importantly, the feature can only be used when the vehicle is stationary, ensuring safety remains a priority.

Through this partnership with AirConsole, Volkswagen is innovating and enhancing the driving experience, keeping up with the automotive industry’s continued evolution, while incorporating digital and interactive elements into vehicles is becoming more important.