Drivers of Hyundai Motor Co. and Kia Corp. vehicles will be able to enjoy a wide range of infotainment services such as Podbbang, an audio streaming service, from June, as the auto giants strive to keep up with current consumer demands.

The two top automakers in South Korea under Hyundai Motor Group announced Wednesday that it will update its in-vehicle infotainment software to ensure drivers can enjoy over-the-top streaming services and podcasts.

The update will be done remotely for major models, such as luxury brand Genesis’ flagship G90 sedan. For safety reasons, drivers can use the services only when the cars are parked.

In-vehicle infotainment services are a combination of automotive systems that can be used to deliver information and entertainment, including music and games, to drivers and passengers.

According to industry sources, Hyundai Motor Group is accelerating its efforts to implement in-vehicle games. The Korean automaker is expected to offer GeForce NOW, a cloud gaming service of Nvidia Corp. to its customers.

The global automotive infotainment industry is projected to reach $59 billion in 2032, up from $26.4 billion this year, according to Precedence Research, a global market research firm.

U.S. electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Tesla Inc. has taken the lead with innovations in automotive software.

Tesla Model S boasts an infotainment system that allows drivers to enjoy high-resolution games and movies via two display screens attached to the front and rear seats.

Others are following suit.

Germany’s BMW Group has partnered with game service provider AirConsole to provide a full-on gaming experience from the front seats of its new EV BMW i5. The games are designed to use mobile phones as controllers. Drivers and passengers can use the games together.

Sony Honda Mobility Inc., a joint venture established by Sony Group Corp. and Honda Motor Co., said earlier that it will incorporate Sony’s game console PlayStation 5 into Afeela, an electric vehicle set to be released in 2025.

German carmaker Audi AG will also add an in-vehicle content based on virtual reality devices to its in-vehicle software as early as June.

Automotive industry watchers expected progress in autonomous driving to accelerate the growth in automotive infotainment services. “Advanced self-driving technology makes cars part of our daily life,” said an unnamed industry official. “Global automakers are engaging in the technology for more excitement.”

By Lee Yu-sup and Han Yubin

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