In late May, BMW announced a partnership with gaming platform AirConsole, bringing in-car gaming to the new 5 Series. Naturally, this would only be available for drivers and passengers when the vehicle is stationary, in an effort to avoid dangerous distracted driving. But if you happen to be on a road trip with family or friends in your new all-electric i5 and are waiting for your batteries to be fully topped off with fresh electricity, what better way to pass the time than a series of games played on the massive curved display?
It’s so meta.
At the time of the announcement, there were fifteen game titles available including “Go Kart Go”, “Golazo”, “Music Guess” and “Overcooked,” with promises of an ever-expanding list of “racing and sports games as well as simulation, strategy, jump-and-run and puzzle games,” says BMW. Players use their touch-screen cell phones to connect, control, and play the games—sorry flip phone users, T9 controls aren’t supported.
Titles on titles.
BMW and AirConsole are showcasing their new partnership at Gamescom, Cologne this week, with an i5 demonstration and a new game title: “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”
“Introducing ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?’ to our platform represents the perfect blend of entertainment and innovation,” stated Michael Fuller, in charge of Business Development for Games at AirConsole. He adds, “The game is a cherished global phenomenon, and its addition showcases our excitement and commitment to pioneering in-car gaming.”
Can I phone a friend?
The best part: if your cellular device is already paired with your i5, phoning a friend is just a click, gesture, or voice activation away. —Mike Bevels
[Photos courtesy of BMW.]