Apple’s Car Key feature, introduced in 2020, has revolutionized vehicle access by allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to unlock and start their cars using their devices. This functionality leverages Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, enabling drivers to perform these actions by simply approaching their vehicle or using an NFC reader.
Initially, Car Key support was limited to a select group of manufacturers, including BMW, Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia. However, at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2025, Apple announced plans to extend this feature to 13 additional car brands. Among these are General Motors’ (GM) subsidiaries: Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac. This expansion signifies a significant step in integrating Apple’s digital key technology across a broader spectrum of vehicles.
Recent code discoveries within Apple’s systems indicate that the company has added settings for GM vehicles to its internal list of Car Key-compatible models. This suggests that select GM cars will soon support Apple’s Car Key system. As of now, the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV and the 2026 GMC Sierra EV are confirmed to feature Car Key support. It remains to be seen which additional models from Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC will receive this compatibility.
The integration of Car Key into GM vehicles is not the first collaboration between Apple and the automaker. In 2012, GM was among the first to adopt Apple’s Eyes Free Siri integration, allowing drivers to access Siri’s functionalities without diverting their attention from the road. This partnership continued with the adoption of Apple CarPlay in 2016, enhancing in-car infotainment systems by providing seamless integration with iOS devices.
However, in March 2023, GM announced plans to phase out CarPlay and Android Auto in favor of an in-house infotainment system developed in collaboration with Google. This move aimed to create a more integrated and subscription-based digital experience for users. Despite this shift, the recent developments suggest a renewed collaboration between Apple and GM, focusing on enhancing vehicle accessibility through digital key technology.
The Car Key feature offers several advantages to drivers. By storing digital keys in the Apple Wallet, users can lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without the need for a physical key. This not only adds convenience but also enhances security, as digital keys can be shared or revoked remotely. Additionally, the integration with Apple’s ecosystem ensures a seamless user experience, aligning with the increasing demand for smart and connected vehicle solutions.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards digitalization and connectivity, collaborations like this between tech companies and automakers are becoming increasingly common. The expansion of Apple’s Car Key to GM vehicles reflects a broader trend of integrating advanced technologies to enhance user convenience and vehicle functionality.
In conclusion, the forthcoming integration of Apple’s Car Key feature into select GM vehicles marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between the two companies. It underscores the growing importance of digital solutions in the automotive sector and highlights the potential for future innovations that prioritize user convenience and security.
