In-Car Video Streaming Is Becoming a Fad, and Audi Wants In With Disney+

In-Car Video Streaming

We now live in a world where automotive features and creature comforts are abundant. One of the most recent in-car tech that's becoming a fad these days is video streaming. Yes, some cars can now stream your favorite shows and movies.

While it might seem like an unnecessary "gimmick," the streaming feature is actually a plus for family haulers since entertaining young ones during any road trip is a challenge in itself. Recognizing this, Audi has just announced that it's joining the streaming party – a follow-up to its in-dash gaming feature introduced earlier this year.

Audi adds Disney+

According to its press release, Audi vehicles will now be able to integrate the Disney+ streaming service. The automaker also highlights the following: "From Star Wars and Marvel to timeless Disney classics – stream your favorite movies on the central MMI display while parked, or on the optional MMI passenger display during the drive. Access the app via the Audi Application Store in the new models across many series, offered in over 40 markets worldwide."

The announcement also comes on the heels of Audi's partnership with Disney for the latest installment of the Tron series. In Tron: Ares, the Audi Q8 e-tron and a fictional “Audi quattro Rallye” feature, combining real-world driving excitement with a digital future.

Safety First

One big reason brands can now offer in-car streaming services is that modern cars have a multitude of screens for both front- and rear-seat passengers. It's also common sense to think that streaming could be an unwanted distraction for the driver.

In Audi's case, they've the feature that can be used on the central screen when parked, and can also be streamed through the rear passenger screens while on the move; in any case, a central streaming option can be distracting, so drivers should really be careful when operating the feature while driving. Safety should always be the priority.

First Adopters

Audi isn't the first to integrate streaming into its cars; the idea dates back to around 2019, when Tesla debuted Tesla Theater, which allowed owners to stream platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu.

Meanwhile, GM was one of the first to partner with Disney, taking the Tesla idea further by focusing on family content, recognizing its importance next to the other big streaming platforms. However, GM's streaming system works only for the front passenger and the rear integrated screens, recognizing the dangers of distracted driving.

View the full article