BMW brings Uno card game into its luxury cars

Fans of the classic card game Uno will soon be able to take the game with them on the go. They just don’t have to deal the cards and then drive.

German automaker BMW has signed a deal with toy and game developer Mattel and gaming platform AirConsole to bring a digital version of the game to its lineup of high-end automobiles, including the BMW X3, the company said on Thursday.

“We are super happy to introduce Uno in some of our new vehicles and think many of our customers of all ages will feel the same,” said a BMW spokesman. Decrypt.

Consumers will be able to see the Uno Car Party app for the first time on August 21 during Gamescom 2024 in Cologne. According to BMW, the Uno Party will be launched in over 500,000 BMW and Mini vehicles after the official launch.

According to the company, up to four players can play Uno Party with AirConsole. Founded in 2015, Zurich-based N-Dream partnered with BMW in August 2023 to bring its AirConsole entertainment system to its line of high-end luxury cars.

“Whether a family is taking a break on a road trip or a group of friends is stopping to plan their next move, drivers sitting in one place can use AirConsole’s unique game controller system to connect all passengers to the game via their personal device,” BMW said in a statement.

AirConsole users will initially need to use their smartphone to play games in their BMW. In future versions, the company says, game controllers can be added to the gaming experience.

“Each player can secretly view their own cards on their phone while playing through the car’s infotainment system,” explained Anthony Cliquot, CEO of AirConsole. “It’s an experience that wouldn’t be possible with touchscreen or Bluetooth controls on the infotainment system alone.”

Even though the AirConsole can make long car journeys interesting, BMW says safety comes first.

“Vehicles must be parked to enable gaming,” the company said.

BMW has been incorporating more technology into its vehicles. The company has been incorporating AI into its vehicles since 2018 and the launch of its iDrive system. In January, BMW showcased new tech features for its car line at CES 2024, including generative AI in its BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, as well as gaming and streaming options.

“UNO is perfect for in-car gaming because it’s highly engaging and brings people together,” said Erika Winterholler, head of digital gaming business development at Mattel, in a statement. “The social nature of UNO makes every drive a fun experience and we’re excited to bring that spirit to consumers in innovative ways, together with our partners at BMW and AirConsole.”

Edited by Ryan Ozawa.