Volkswagen Becomes Latest Automaker to Offer In-Car Gaming

Volkswagen is the latest automotive manufacturer to offer in-car gaming experience not requiring game controllers in vehicles.

Thanks to its new partnership with gaming platform company AirConsole, Volkswagen is set to bring games to its vehicle lineup this fall. AirConsole is scheduled to become available in the newest Passat, Tiguan, Golf and Golf Estate models, as well as the ID.7, ID.5 and ID.3 vehicles. 

The AirConsole gaming platform aims to provide travelers with entertainment while on the road, whether they are charging their vehicle or taking a break, according to Volkswagen. 

The platform is accessible through the vehicle’s infotainment display, which transforms into a game console, with a smartphone serving as the controller. The vehicle must be in park mode to use the gaming feature. 

The connection between the smartphone and the vehicle is intuitive. 

After launching the AirConsole app in the car, the smartphone pairs with the vehicle by scanning a QR code displayed on the screen. The AirConsole platform supports multiple players at once, including rear-seat passengers during stops. Games can be played alone or with all vehicle occupants. 

Volkswagen plans to roll out AirConsole in select European countries starting in mid-September. By the end of 2024 and early 2025, the company plans to expand the service with additional games and extend it to more countries across Europe.

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