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The BMW Group is giving a big nod to playing video games in your car as it launches the AirConsole gaming platform in its BMW 5 Series vehicles.
BMW said the partnership will introduce a unique type of in-car gaming for the first time in the new BMW 5 Series. Unfortunately, but probably best played when the car isn’t moving.
It allows the driver and passengers to play so-called casual games while the car is stationary as a way to pass the time, for example while waiting for the car to charge. (Having just tested some electric cars, I can tell you that charging times are long.)
In addition to the new BMW 5 Series, the AirConsole app will be offered in other BMW vehicles. The BMW i5 car has been designed by BMW Group Design with a unique playful look. This shade transforms the BMW 5 Series into the ultimate gaming station not only technically, but also visually, the company said.
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Easy to use with your smartphone as a controller
For the in-car gaming experience, gamers just need their smartphone, which acts as a controller, and the BMW Curved Display.
After launching the AirConsole app in the car, the connection between the smartphone and the car is established intuitively by scanning the QR code on the curved screen. Players can then start playing right away.
AirConsole app supports multiple players simultaneously. Rear passengers can also participate in in-car gaming fun during stops. In general, it is possible to play alone or with all passengers of the car together or in competitive mode.
With AirConsole, gamers can play casual games. These are games that are easy to pick up and play and intuitive to control. The selection available for the market launch of the new BMW 5 Series saloon includes racing, sports, quiz and music quiz games, as well as simulation, strategy, jump and run and puzzle games.
The 15 or so titles available to play from launch include Go Kart Go, Golazo, Music Guess and Overcooked. The portfolio of available games will be continuously expanded.
BMW i5 in a unique sporty look
To celebrate the launch of gaming in cars, the BMW Group presents the BMW i5 with a unique gaming finish. Its design symbolizes immersion in the gaming experience down to the individual pixels.
The large pixels are clearly recognizable as an homage to the now iconic 8-bit era of computer gaming. The color scheme is inspired by the various games available on the AirConsole platform.
The elements of the video game controllers wrap around the i5 and thus adopt a unique solution for in-car gaming through AirConsole, where the smartphone becomes the controller and puts all game options at players’ fingertips. I recently toured the Santa Monica, California studio where BMW designs many of its cars and other products.
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