Volkswagen Teams Up with AirConsole for In-Car Entertainment

Volkswagen AG Teams Up with AirConsole to Revolutionize In-Car Entertainment

Volkswagen AG has announced a strategic partnership with gaming platform AirConsole to introduce an innovative in-car entertainment experience. Commencing in mid-September, drivers and passengers across Europe will have the opportunity to indulge in AirConsole games during downtime, particularly during charging breaks. This cutting-edge integration will be featured in Volkswagen's latest models, including the ID.7, ID.5, ID.4, ID.3, Passat, Tiguan, Golf, and Golf Estate.

To participate, users will only require their smartphones, serving as controllers, and the VW Active Info Display. The setup process entails scanning a QR code on the infotainment screen to establish a connection between the smartphone and the vehicle. This enables both individual and group gaming, empowering rear passengers to join in during brief stops.

Volkswagen is committed to expanding the variety of games and the availability of this feature to more European territories by the close of 2024. AirConsole caters to casual players of all age groups, positioning it as a family-friendly addition to Volkswagen's in-car portfolio.

Key Takeaways

• Volkswagen forges a partnership with AirConsole to introduce in-car gaming.
• AirConsole's games will be accessible through VW infotainment displays.
• The usage of smartphones as game controllers will be featured.
• Deployment in Europe is scheduled to commence in mid-September, with plans for expansion by the end of 2024.
• The games can be enjoyed during park mode, accommodating multiple players.

Analysis

Volkswagen's collaboration with AirConsole aims to diversify in-car entertainment, with a focus on utilizing idle times such as charging breaks. This strategic maneuver has the potential to enhance customer satisfaction and retention, especially within the fiercely competitive electric vehicle market. In the short term, it will augment Volkswagen's brand appeal, while in the long term, it could pave the way for broader in-car technological integrations. The partnership also presents an opportunity for AirConsole to gain increased visibility and expand its user base. While European consumers stand to gain a fresh and engaging entertainment option, the potential regulatory scrutiny pertaining to driver distraction remains a significant consideration.

Did You Know?

• AirConsole:
  • AirConsole is a cloud-based gaming platform that enables users to play games on their televisions using smartphones as controllers. It hosts an array of casual games suitable for brief play sessions, making it an ideal choice for in-car entertainment during breaks.
• VW Active Info Display:
  • The VW Active Info Display is a customizable digital instrument cluster that furnishes drivers with essential information in a clear and visually appealing format. In the context of this collaboration, it will also function as the primary display for AirConsole games when the vehicle is parked.
• Infotainment System:
  • An infotainment system within a vehicle integrates entertainment and information delivery, encompassing audio, video, navigation, and connectivity features. The integration of AirConsole will enhance Volkswagen's infotainment system, granting passengers direct access to and the ability to engage in gaming activities from the vehicle's display.