If you had any doubt that in-car gaming is going to be a bigger thing, here’s an announcement of note. It’s yet another example of the many media options car passengers have in addition to listening to the radio.
Swiss company N-Dream has launched its AirConsole interactive gaming platform in certain Audi vehicles. It allows passengers, including those in the front seat, to access games using their smartphones and in-car infotainment systems even while the car is moving.
“In models equipped with a passenger display, Audi’s Active Privacy Mode — a unique digital curtain that blocks the screen from the driver to prevent distraction — allows the front passenger to enjoy gaming while the vehicle is in motion,” it stated in its press release.
“Previously limited to parked scenarios, in-car gaming is now a seamless part of the Audi experience, keeping non-driving passengers entertained throughout the ride.”
AirConsole is available through the Audi Application Store. Users download the app through the car’s infotainment system, then passengers can use their smartphones as game controllers. A scan of a QR code on the vehicle’s screen connects the players.
The announcement was made by Anthony Cliquot, CEO at N-Dream. It markets AirConsole as the first gaming platform designed for cars, promising an immersive experience: “It transforms your car into a fully featured gaming station including the infotainment, sound and light systems.”
The feature is available in the Audi A5, Q5, A6, A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron model series equipped with Android-based infotainment systems.
Audi and AirConsole also announced a partnership with Mattel to introduce a game called Pictionary Car Party that allows up to four players to connect via personal devices. AirConsole includes other games such as trivia, sports, racing and party games such as “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” from Sony Pictures Television and “Overcooked” from Team17.
The company also has gaming deals with BMW and VW, and it offers gaming for browsers and big screens as well.
[Related: Jury Says Video and Gaming Are Becoming Priorities for Consumers]
