VW upgrades apps for its vans

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is now upgrading the range of apps for the current versions of the ID. Buzz, Caddy, Multivan, California and Crafter with the first games console developed for vehicles: the AirConsole In-Car App. The app makes it possible to stream online games while charging or during other breaks, for example. The clever thing here is that passengers’ smartphones act as the controllers.

With the AirConsole, Volkswagen is significantly upgrading the existing range of onboard games. Up to now, there have been games that are permanently installed on the infotainment system and controlled via the touchscreen and the multifunction steering wheel. However, the AirConsole is now transforming the infotainment system into a real gaming platform. This enables passengers to compete against each other in a parked vehicle using their smartphones – just like at home with a games console and controllers. Depending on the game and amount of space in the car, up to eight players can take part.

Volkswagen will continue to expand the games programme with co-operation partners N-Dream and Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc. Fifteen games, which can be streamed free of charge (with an active VW Connect Plus contract), are already available. One of the best-known games on the AirConsole is the classic PAC-MAN Championship Edition.