Apple Wallet’s Car Key Feature Expands to 13 New Vehicle Brands
Apple’s innovative Car Key feature, introduced in 2020, is set to broaden its reach by incorporating support for 13 additional vehicle brands. This expansion signifies a substantial advancement in the integration of digital technology within the automotive sector, offering users enhanced convenience and security.
Understanding Apple’s Car Key Functionality
The Car Key feature allows users to store a digital version of their car key within the Apple Wallet app on their iPhone or Apple Watch. This digital key facilitates various functionalities, including:
– Passive Entry: As users approach their vehicle with their device, the car automatically unlocks. Once inside, they can start the engine, and upon exiting and distancing themselves, the vehicle locks itself.
– Proximity Activation: By holding the device near the car’s door handle or key reader, users can lock, unlock, and start the vehicle.
– Remote Access: The device enables users to lock and unlock the car remotely and access other features as provided by the manufacturer.
Additionally, the Car Key feature supports Express Mode, allowing users to operate their vehicle without unlocking their device or authenticating via Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. The Wallet app also facilitates sharing the digital car key through platforms like Messages, Mail, and AirDrop. Notably, even if the iPhone’s battery is depleted, it can still function as a car key for up to five hours, ensuring uninterrupted access.
Upcoming Vehicle Brands Integrating Car Key Support
Apple has announced that the following 13 vehicle brands will soon support the Car Key feature:
– Acura
– Cadillac
– Chery
– Chevrolet
– GMC
– Hongqi
– Lucid
– Porsche
– Rivian
– Smart
– Tata
– Voyah
– WEY
While specific timelines for each brand’s adoption have not been disclosed, recent developments indicate that some manufacturers are on the verge of implementing this feature. For instance, Rivian has confirmed that its second-generation R1S and R1T models will receive Car Key support through an over-the-air software update later this month. This update will enable iPhone users to store their car keys in Apple Wallet and use their iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock and start their vehicles. The update will also include support for Ultra-Wideband (UWB) for precise proximity detection and Near Field Communication (NFC), allowing users to unlock their car even if their phone’s battery is depleted.
Current Landscape of Car Key Support
Prior to this expansion, several vehicle brands had already integrated Car Key support, including:
– BMW: Models from 2021 onwards, such as the 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, and others.
– Genesis: Select models like the 2023 G90 and GV60 Performance.
– Hyundai: Models including the 2023 Palisade and IONIQ 6.
– Kia: Vehicles like the 2023 Telluride and Niro.
– Mercedes-Benz: The 2024 E-Class and newer models.
– Volvo: The EX90 and EX30 models.
The addition of the 13 new brands will bring the total number of vehicle brands supporting Apple Wallet’s Car Key feature to 33, marking a significant milestone in the adoption of digital car keys.
Implications for Users and the Automotive Industry
The expansion of Car Key support reflects a growing trend towards digitalization in the automotive industry. For users, this means enhanced convenience, as they can rely on their Apple devices for vehicle access and control, reducing the need for physical keys. The ability to share digital keys securely with family and friends adds another layer of flexibility.
For automakers, integrating with Apple’s ecosystem can enhance the appeal of their vehicles to tech-savvy consumers. It also opens up possibilities for future integrations and features that can be delivered through software updates, keeping vehicles up-to-date with the latest technology.
Looking Ahead
As Apple continues to collaborate with more vehicle manufacturers, the Car Key feature is poised to become a standard offering in the automotive market. This integration not only simplifies the user experience but also sets the stage for further innovations in vehicle connectivity and security.
Users interested in utilizing the Car Key feature should stay informed about software updates from both Apple and their vehicle manufacturer to ensure compatibility and access to the latest functionalities.
