Porsche brings in-car multiplayer gaming to Macan with AirConsole
Porsche is introducing in-car gaming to its vehicles through a collaboration with AirConsole, enabling passengers to access a library of multiplayer games via the infotainment system.
The integration will debut in the new Porsche Macan and allow passengers to connect their smartphones to the car's system to use as game controllers, requiring no additional hardware. The AirConsole platform will be accessible through the Porsche App Centre, included in the connectivity package for markets where Porsche Connect is offered, except for China.
This collaboration follows recent partnerships between AirConsole and several other car manufacturers, including BMW, Volkswagen, and Audi. The move is seen as part of a wider industry trend towards integrating gaming into mobility, aiming to enhance the in-car experience for passengers.
Gaming experience
When the vehicle is parked, passengers can play multiplayer games together using the central infotainment screen. Once the car is in motion, gameplay continues on the front passenger display, ensuring the driver remains focused and undistracted, supported by Porsche's screen privacy features.
The system enables solo or multiplayer gameplay for up to five players by scanning a QR code with their smartphones. Game genres available include racing, trivia, party, and sports, and the catalogue will expand over time. Titles include well-known games such as Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? from Sony Pictures Television, Overcooked from Team17, and UNO Car Party! from Mattel.
Industry response
"Our collaboration with Porsche is a powerful signal of how quickly AirConsole is scaling in the automotive industry. In just two years since launching our in-car platform, we've partnered with some of the world's most respected car brands, now including Porsche. This momentum confirms that gaming has a meaningful place in the future of mobility, and we're proud to be leading that evolution" commented Anthony Cliquot, CEO of AirConsole.
The expansion of gaming into automotive environments is being regarded as a further step in the evolving use of digital technology within vehicles. Porsche and AirConsole intend to share more information about their partnership at future industry events.
Launch plans
The AirConsole gaming platform will become available at the end of the year starting with the new Macan model. The feature is expected to roll out in all regions with Porsche Connect, which includes countries such as Australia, United Kingdom, United States, Germany, Japan, and others. China is not included in the initial availability.
Setup for the gaming experience is designed to be straightforward. Passengers download the app from Porsche's App Centre and connect their smartphones by scanning a QR code visible on the infotainment screen. This approach eliminates the need for dedicated hardware, using existing devices to facilitate gameplay.
AirConsole is headquartered in Zurich and has operated its automotive platform since July 2023. Since launch, the company has released more than 40 games across different automotive brands, collaborating with both original equipment manufacturers and third-party game developers.
Porsche continues to expand its digital offerings with the aim of providing new in-car experiences. The brand's entertainment system has sought to support a broad base of functionality, with the recent addition of gaming reflecting changing consumer expectations of what in-car environments can provide.
