Best daily deals

Affiliate links on Android Authority may earn us a commission. Learn more.

Virgin America giving its in-flight entertainment an Android-powered upgrade

Virgin America has announced plans to bring its in-flight entertainment options into the modern age, swapping outdated equipment for new Android-powered touchscreen units.
By
June 12, 2015

Virgin America has announced plans to bring its in-flight entertainment options into the modern age, swapping outdated equipment for new Android-powered touchscreen units. While Virgin doesn’t get into the specifics when it comes to specs, the units will offer 720p HD content and, thanks to its Android-based OS, the airline will be able to upgrade and expand the platform’s functionality more easily going forward.

As for what the Red in-flight entertainment units will be capable of when they first launch? First, there will be several features that are geared towards making your flight experience better, including the ability to order food and drink from the unit, as well as send a text, chat, or even a drink to other passengers on the plane. Turning to entertainment, the platform will include classic games like PacMan and Asteroids, and a robust library of modern movies for your viewing pleasure. This includes content from providers like Netflix, though it will apparently be a pay-per-show type basis. It’s also worth noting that the new platform will offer surround sound technology through a partnership with Dysonic.

The new Red upgraded systems will be arriving to just three aircraft this month, though the airline promises that 18 planes will have it by the end of the year. The full rollout for all Virgin America aircraft isn’t expected until sometime in 2016. What do you think of in-flight entertainment units like this? Do you ever use built-in options during your flights, or do you prefer to bring your own devices with your own locally stored content?