Volkswagen's New In-Car Gaming Feature: Entertainment On the Go
Volkswagen is set to revolutionize in-car entertainment by introducing a novel casual multiplayer gaming feature in its electric vehicles (EVs) and other models, leveraging a partnership with AirConsole. The integration will span across a range of VW lines, including ID.7, ID.5, ID.4, ID.3, as well as the new Passat, Tiguan, Golf, and Golf Estate. This initiative is primed for its debut in select European markets by mid-September, with a comprehensive rollout expected to encompass additional games and regions.
To partake in these games, users can effortlessly launch the AirConsole app on the VW Active Info Display and scan a QR code using their smartphones, allowing rear passengers to join in the entertainment. However, it's worth noting that the games will be accessible only when the vehicle is parked, catering to passengers during charging stops or idle periods.
This innovative move is not exclusive to VW; BMW has also integrated AirConsole into its vehicles, and the platform is compatible with various devices, including desktop browsers and smart TVs. The trend of in-car gaming has been gaining momentum, with Tesla previously providing access to Steam in some models before discontinuing support. Personally, the concept of integrating a PS5 into a Volkswagen ID.Buzz seems remarkably captivating.
Key Takeaways
- Volkswagen collaborates with AirConsole for in-car gaming experiences.
- Available on ID.7, ID.5, ID.4, ID.3, Passat, Tiguan, Golf models.
- Games accessible via smartphone, operable in park mode.
- European launch set for mid-September, broader expansion in the pipeline.
- AirConsole also integrated into BMW vehicles, desktops, and smart TVs.
Analysis
Volkswagen's introduction of AirConsole gaming in its EVs and models is a strategic move aimed at enhancing passenger experiences during downtime, potentially bolstering the brand's appeal, particularly among younger demographic segments, and posing a challenge to competitors such as Tesla and BMW. The short-term implications might include heightened consumer engagement and prospective sales growth within gaming-centric markets. Long-term effects could encompass the advancement of in-car entertainment innovations, influencing both the automotive and tech industries. Financial considerations may involve forging partnerships with gaming developers and the potential for revenue generation from in-car entertainment services.
Did You Know?
- AirConsole:
- Explanation: AirConsole is a cloud-based gaming platform that enables users to play games on their smart devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, by connecting to a shared screen like a TV or, in this case, the VW Active Info Display. The platform hosts a myriad of casual multiplayer games, making it an ideal fit for in-car entertainment.
- VW Active Info Display:
- Explanation: The VW Active Info Display, also recognized as a digital cockpit or instrument cluster, is a customizable screen positioned in the vehicle's front, showcasing essential driving information and serving as a centralized hub for various in-car functionalities, including the integration of AirConsole for gaming.
- Park Mode:
- Explanation: Park Mode denotes the state in which a vehicle is stationary, with the engine turned off. In the context of Volkswagen's latest gaming feature, games will only be accessible when the vehicle is in Park Mode, ensuring safety by preventing gameplay while the vehicle is in motion.