- Hyundai, Kia and Genesis cars will get the Xbox app soon
- AAA titles available to Game Pass Ultimate subscribers
- But your boss can also schedule Zoom calls while you travel
While show-goers were distracted by an array of shiny concept cars and advanced robots, LG held a press conference at the IAA Mobility show in Munich to announce its partnership with Xbox.
That’s right, it wants to bring AAA gaming titles to future vehicles through its webOS-based Automotive Content Platform (ACP), which is already in use by certain models from the Hyundai Motor Group (think Kia, Hyundai and Genesis).
The technology giant said that the Xbox app would be integrated into LG’s ACP and those with the Xbox app, an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, a compatible Bluetooth controller and supported internet access could gain access to “hundreds of games”.
We just got our first glimpse of the Xbox full-screen experience on an original Asus ROG Ally – and it has me pumped to see it on desktop PCs
However, there is a catch, because the other panel speaker was Brendan Ittelson, Chief Ecosystem Officer at Zoom. That’s right, if you want to enjoy gaming, you’ll also have to put up with Zoom calls in the car.
A native Zoom app will apparently “transform vehicles into mobile collaboration spaces” – or allow your boss to schedule a meeting when you’d rather be enjoying a podcast.
Thanks to LG’s webOS-based Automotive Content Platform, a number of cars from the Hyundai Motor Group can already offer things like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube and Baby Shark World for Kids directly form the infotainment system.
All of these apps are designed for use when the vehicle is parked, helping owners kill some time when they are perhaps charging an EV, or waiting to pick up the kids from school.
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Mercedes-Benz also showcased gaming inside its vehicles with the recently-launched CLA, which features the marque’s new hyperscreen and a Dolby Atmos-enabled sound system, which allows customers to tether a gaming controller and partake in some Fortnite action or indulge in a film when parked.
Vehicles are rapidly becoming extension to the entertainment space, but at the same time, they are also another excuse to remain connected to the office.
That might be a positive addition for some, but I’d rather not have to take Zoom calls when on the move.
Leon PoultneyEVs correspondent
Leon has been navigating a world where automotive and tech collide for almost 20 years, reporting on everything from in-car entertainment to robotised manufacturing plants. Currently, EVs are the focus of his attentions, but give it a few years and it will be electric vertical take-off and landing craft. Outside of work hours, he can be found tinkering with distinctly analogue motorcycles, because electric motors are no replacement for an old Honda inline four.
