The comparison of smartphones and electric vehicles in terms of functionality and tendency to constantly update software is justified by another initiative, authored by Volkswagen. In the markets of some European countries, VW will introduce the AirConsole utility by mid-September, which allows you to run casual games on the central display of the car, using smartphones as manipulators.
Image source: Volkswagen
Volkswagen intends to extend the profile software to the ID3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 family of electric vehicles, as well as to the on-board systems of conventional internal combustion vehicles, such as the Tiguan, Golf and Golf Estate. Later updates will bring AirConsole support to other regions, while support for new games will be expanded. Connection to the platform is accomplished by scanning a QR code that appears on the central display of the vehicle’s on-board entertainment system. If the game supports multiplayer mode, passengers can accompany the driver, but only if the vehicle is stationary. The implication is that it will be more fun to while away the time while charging the traction battery of an electric vehicle.
BMW began supporting this platform last year, but Tesla even implemented support for games from the Steam catalog using the on-board systems of its Model S and Model X electric vehicles, although this year it refused to support this function. However, car owners can choose games of a different origin; this restriction does not apply to them. The steering wheel and pedals of an electric car in this mode can be used as controls in racing simulators. Naturally, the real car must remain in place.