Volkswagen lets you turn charging into game time with AirConsole

Electric vehicles are changing the way we drive, but charging times can still be quite a bit of a drag. Volkswagen has a clever solution to make those waits more bearable, even fun - casual multiplayer games right in your car.

Starting this September, several Volkswagen models, including popular EVs like the ID.7, ID.5, ID.4, and ID.3, along with the Passat, Tiguan, Golf, and Golf Estate, will turn into mobile gaming hubs. This is thanks to a partnership with AirConsole, a platform that brings a collection of casual games right to your car's infotainment system.

The setup is simple. Passengers just need to fire up the AirConsole app on their smartphones, scan a QR code on the car's display, and voila, their phones become game controllers. Everyone in the car can join in, turning charging stops or rest breaks into a multiplayer gaming session.

Volkswagen isn't the first to try this, with BMW already offering AirConsole in some of its models. The beauty of AirConsole is its flexibility; it works on various devices, from web browsers to smart TVs and, now, Volkswagen cars. It's a smart way to add some entertainment value, especially for families with kids or anyone who wants to make those charging waits a little less tedious.

Initially, the service will be available in select European markets, with a broader rollout and more game options planned for the future. Volkswagen sees this as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the in-car experience. As EVs become more mainstream, keeping passengers entertained, especially during charging, is becoming increasingly important.

The selection of games on AirConsole is geared towards casual gamers of all ages, promising fun for everyone in the car. And with both single-player and multiplayer modes, it's pretty much adaptable to any situation. For EV owners, turning charging time into game time is a clever way to make the transition to electric even more enjoyable.

Via