Volkswagen Collaborates with AirConsole to Launch In-Car Gaming Experience

Volkswagen AG, a global leader in automotive innovation, is pioneering a new frontier in in-car entertainment by teaming up with AirConsole, a cutting-edge gaming platform designed specifically for vehicles. This partnership marks a significant shift in how drivers and passengers experience travel, merging the worlds of mobility and digital entertainment. The initiative will initially roll out with Volkswagen’s ID.7, ID.5, ID.4, and ID.3 models equipped with ID. software 4.0 and will also be integrated into other prominent models, including the new Passat, Tiguan, Golf, and Golf Estate.

The integration of AirConsole into Volkswagen vehicles is set to revolutionize the in-car experience, offering a unique form of entertainment during moments of inactivity such as charging the car or taking a rest stop. The gaming platform transforms the vehicle’s infotainment display into a fully functional gaming console, with the added convenience of using a smartphone as a wireless controller. This setup is both intuitive and user-friendly, allowing for quick and seamless connectivity between the smartphone and the vehicle’s system.

In the ID.7 Tourer, for example, passengers will have the ability to engage in multiplayer gaming, creating a dynamic and interactive experience that turns travel time into playtime. The gaming sessions are not just limited to individual players but can involve all occupants of the vehicle, including those seated in the rear, enhancing the overall journey. This feature will be available once the vehicle is parked, ensuring that safety is not compromised while the vehicle is in motion.

Volkswagen plans to launch the AirConsole gaming platform across select European countries starting in mid-September, with a broader expansion to additional countries and an enriched game library slated for late 2024. This timeline demonstrates Volkswagen’s commitment to rapidly advancing in-car technology to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

Connecting to the AirConsole platform is straightforward. Players can start by accessing the AirConsole app through the vehicle’s infotainment system. A QR code will appear on the display screen, which the player can scan with their smartphone to establish a connection. Once connected, players can immediately dive into a variety of games, ranging from simple, casual titles to more engaging multiplayer experiences. The platform is designed to accommodate players of all ages and interests, making it a versatile addition to the in-car environment.

This strategic partnership with AirConsole is part of Volkswagen’s broader vision to redefine the driving experience. By integrating digital entertainment directly into their vehicles, Volkswagen is not only enhancing the utility of its infotainment systems but also addressing the increasing demand for connectivity and leisure in the automotive industry. This move is expected to appeal particularly to tech-savvy consumers who value the seamless integration of digital services into their daily lives.

Volkswagen AG, based in Wolfsburg, Germany, is a cornerstone of the global automotive industry, known for its wide-ranging influence and commitment to innovation. The company operates on a massive scale, with 114 production facilities spread across 19 European countries and 10 additional countries in the Americas, Asia, and Africa. Employing approximately 684,000 people worldwide, Volkswagen is not just a car manufacturer but a global force driving the future of mobility. This latest venture with AirConsole further solidifies Volkswagen’s position as a leader in blending advanced technology with the automotive experience, setting new standards for what consumers can expect from their vehicles.