BMW has joined forces with AirConsole to incorporate gaming capabilities into the all-new i5 and its non-EV counterparts from the latest 5-Series lineup. While it may not rival the likes of Cyberpunk 2077 or Halo Infinite, the gaming experience in the i5 aims to provide entertainment and help occupants pass the time while the car is being recharged.
The initial offering includes 15 games, with popular titles such as Go Kart Go, Golazo, Music Guess, and Overcooked among the options. BMW assures that the selection of games will continue to expand as new titles are added via over-the-air (OTA) updates.
Playing these games is a straightforward process. All that is required is the new BMW i5 and a mobile phone, or multiple phones for multiplayer games, which will serve as the controllers. By accessing the menu and activating the AirConsole feature, a QR code appears, which needs to be scanned using the phone(s). Once connected to the car, players can dive into their chosen game. AirConsole supports multiple players, allowing every passenger to join in the fun. However, there is one condition—the vehicle must be stationary for safety reasons.
To mark the launch of AirConsole, BMW has unveiled a special one-off i5 model adorned with unique gaming graphics. The design draws inspiration from the iconic 8-bit games era, with colors representing some of the games available on the AirConsole platform.
The AirConsole functionality is integrated within the latest BMW 8.5 operating system, which comes preinstalled in the new i5. Starting from July, the BMW i7, 7-series, iX, and the i4 models will also come equipped with the 8.5 software suite. However, it is important to note that only the BMW iX units manufactured after March of this year will receive the OTA update, leaving current owners of i4, iX3, and iX1 vehicles disappointed.
BMW’s collaboration with AirConsole introduces a new dimension of entertainment to the driving experience, offering occupants a delightful way to engage with games while their vehicle is being charged. With ongoing expansion of the gaming portfolio, BMW enthusiasts can look forward to an evolving selection of titles to enjoy in the i5 and other 5-Series models.
