AirConsole and Audi bring gaming on the go

AirConsole and Audi have partnered to offer in-car gaming on select Audi vehicles while the car is in motion.

The announcement follows VW and BMW’s partnership last August, but with a unique feature for Audi passengers: to play while the car is moving.

The AirConsole platform brings social games that everyone can play together with their smartphones, such as the launch of Matter’s Pictionary Car Party directly on the infotainment system.

In Audi vehicles that have a passenger display, Audi’s Active Privacy Mode will kick in, which is a unique digital curtain that blocks the screen from the driver to prevent distraction, so the front passenger can continue playing games.

AirConsole gaming was previously limited to when the vehicle was parked, but now, with Audi’s offering, lets non-driving passengers enjoy in-car gaming throughout the ride.

The feature is available on the Audi A5, Q5, A6, A6 e-tron, and Q6 e-tron models equipped with Android-based infotainment system in all markets that Audi operates.

Anthony Cliquot, CEO at N-Dream, the makers of AirConsole says with Audi, it is redefining what’s possible inside a vehicle, by bringing gaming into motion.

“By enabling gameplay on the passenger screen in a way that prioritises safety, by not distracting the driver, we’re taking a bold yet responsible step toward a future where cars are not just modes of transport, but platforms for shared digital experiences,” says Cliquot.

Audi and AirConsole, in partnership with Mattel, brings a unique version of an in-car edition of Pictionary, in celebration of its 40th anniversary. AirConsole says up to four players can connect via personal devices.

Mattel says the partnership lets non-driving passengers join in on fun, interactive play using their smartphones.

“Most importantly, the front passenger can safely control the game without distracting the driver, ensuring that entertainment and safety go hand-in-hand. This is the future of social gaming on the move, making every journey more enjoyable,” says Erika Winterholler, head of business development, digital gaming at Mattel.

Other than Pictionary Car Party, other AirConsole games across multiple genres include racing, sports, trivia, and party games, such as Who Wants to be a Millionaire, Overcooked and Uno Car Party.

AirConsole is available on the Audi Application Store, featuring apps specifically designed for in-vehicle use.

Users need to download the AirConsole app directly onto their infotainment system, thereafter passengers can use their smartphones as a game controller by scanning a QR Code to instantly connect.