BMW is expanding the reach of its in-car multimedia system by adding native video game support, signaling a notable shift in how drivers experience connected technology behind the wheel. The feature will leverage AirConsole, a gaming platform integrated into the car’s interface, enabling games to run on the central display while smartphones serve as controllers. The rollout will begin with the BMW i5, equipped with a wide, curved screen, and will extend later to other models across the brand’s lineup. This approach positions BMW at the intersection of automotive electronics and entertainment, offering new ways to engage with the vehicle during downtime and while parked.
In the initial phase, 15 games are slated for availability to BMW owners. The catalog spans racing, strategy, quizzes, and puzzle genres, with BMW signaling that the library will grow over time to include additional titles and genres. The company emphasizes that gaming sessions are restricted to when the car is stationary, ensuring safety while still delivering a richer digital experience for customers who want to unwind or compete during extended stops or while charging. The feature underscores BMW’s commitment to expanding the user experience beyond navigation and media playback, aligning with consumer demand for flexible, smartphone-enabled entertainment options inside modern EVs and luxury vehicles in North American markets.
Industry observers note how such integrations reflect broader trends in electric vehicle ownership and connected car ecosystems. As user expectations evolve, automakers are increasingly exploring software-enabled differentiators that make a vehicle feel more like a living, interactive gadget. This particular move from BMW follows a pattern seen in other premium brands that blend gaming, streaming, and micro-entertainment into the onboard experience while preserving core safety priorities and vehicle performance considerations. Market watchers in Canada and the United States may anticipate similar testing and gradual deployment windows as BMW assesses compatibility with regional telecommunications standards and user feedback, ultimately shaping a refreshed, app-like ecosystem inside BMW showrooms and on the road.