Apple’s upcoming iOS 27 update is set to expand its Car Key feature to include support for vehicles from Lucid Motors and Xiaomi. This development was identified in the third developer beta of iOS 27, where code references to “LCID” and “XIA1” were discovered, likely corresponding to Lucid and Xiaomi respectively.
Introduced in 2022, Apple’s Car Key allows users to lock, unlock, and start compatible vehicles using their iPhone or Apple Watch, effectively replacing traditional key fobs. The feature utilizes NFC technology to communicate with vehicles equipped with the necessary hardware.
At the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in 2025, Apple announced plans to extend Car Key support to 13 additional vehicle brands, including Lucid Motors. However, no specific timeline was provided at that time. The recent code findings suggest that support for Lucid’s Air and Gravity models may be imminent.
Xiaomi’s inclusion is particularly noteworthy. Known primarily for its smartphones and consumer electronics, Xiaomi has recently ventured into the electric vehicle market with models like the SU7 sedan and YU7 SUV. Integrating Apple’s Car Key into these vehicles would mark a significant step in bridging Xiaomi’s automotive offerings with Apple’s ecosystem, despite the companies’ competition in the smartphone sector.
Historically, references to vehicle manufacturers in iOS beta code have preceded official announcements. For instance, prior code discoveries hinted at Volkswagen’s adoption of Car Key, which was later confirmed. Similarly, backend references have indicated forthcoming support for General Motors brands. While the specific models and exact release dates remain unconfirmed, the presence of these identifiers in the latest beta suggests that Car Key support for Lucid and Xiaomi vehicles could be introduced in the near future.
Expanding Car Key compatibility to include Lucid and Xiaomi vehicles underscores Apple’s commitment to broadening its digital car key ecosystem. For consumers, this means increased convenience and a more seamless integration between their devices and vehicles. As the automotive industry continues to embrace digital solutions, such collaborations highlight the growing importance of cross-industry partnerships in enhancing user experiences.
