Apple Wallet Car Keys is a new feature introduced in the iOS 14 that allows users to use their iPhone or Apple Watch as a digital car key. This feature enables users to unlock and start their car without the need for a physical car key.
The Apple Wallet Car Keys feature utilizes NFC (Near Field Communication) technology to communicate with the car's built-in NFC reader. This allows for a secure and convenient way to access and drive your car.
Car manufacturers have been quick to embrace this new technology, and several have already announced support for Apple Wallet Car Keys. In this article, we will take a look at which cars are compatible with Apple Wallet Car Keys and how this feature works.
How Apple Wallet Car Keys Work
Before we dive into the list of compatible cars, let's first understand how Apple Wallet Car Keys actually work.
When a car is equipped with Apple Wallet Car Keys compatibility, the owner can add their digital car key to the Apple Wallet app on their iPhone or Apple Watch. Once added, the digital car key is securely stored in the Secure Element, a dedicated chip in the device that handles sensitive information like credit card and transit card data for Apple Pay.
When the user approaches their car, they can simply hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near the car's NFC reader. The car will then authenticate the digital car key using a secure communication between the device and the car. Once authenticated, the car can be unlocked and started by simply tapping the device on the car's NFC reader.
This feature also allows for sharing digital car keys with family members or friends through the Messages app. The owner can send a digital car key invitation to another person, who can then add it to their Apple Wallet and use it to unlock and start the car.
List of Cars Compatible with Apple Wallet Car Keys
As of now, several car manufacturers have announced support for Apple Wallet Car Keys. Some of the car brands and models that are compatible with Apple Wallet Car Keys include:
BMW
- BMW was one of the first car manufacturers to announce support for Apple Wallet Car Keys. The following BMW models are compatible with this feature:
- 1 Series
- 2 Series
- 3 Series
- 4 Series
- 5 Series
- 6 Series
- 8 Series
- X5
- X6
- X7
- X5 M
- X6 M
- Z4
- M8
- M5
- M3
Ford
- Ford has also announced support for Apple Wallet Car Keys in some of their models. The following Ford models are compatible with this feature:
- Mustang
- F-150
- Bronco
Honda
- Honda has announced that the 2021 Accord and the 2022 Civic will be compatible with Apple Wallet Car Keys.
Hyundai
- Hyundai has announced support for Apple Wallet Car Keys in the 2020 Sonata.
Genesis
- The 2021 Genesis G80 and GV80 are compatible with Apple Wallet Car Keys.
Mini
- Mini has announced that the 2022 Mini Cooper Hardtop and Mini Cooper Convertible will support Apple Wallet Car Keys.
Tesla
- Tesla has also announced plans to support Apple Wallet Car Keys, although specific models and timelines have not yet been confirmed.
These are just a few examples of the car models that support Apple Wallet Car Keys. As Apple continues to expand its partnership with car manufacturers, we can expect to see more brands and models adding support for this feature in the future.
Setting Up Apple Wallet Car Keys
Setting up Apple Wallet Car Keys is a fairly straightforward process. Here's how you can add your digital car key to the Apple Wallet app on your iPhone:
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Check Compatibility: Make sure that your car model is on the list of compatible vehicles for Apple Wallet Car Keys.
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Update to the Latest iOS: Ensure that your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS to support Apple Wallet Car Keys.
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Add Car Key: Open the car manufacturer's app or go to the car manufacturer's website to check if they provide a way to add the digital car key to your Apple Wallet. Follow the on-screen instructions to add the car key to your Apple Wallet.
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Unlock and Start: Once the digital car key has been added to your Apple Wallet, you can use your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock and start your car by holding it near the car's NFC reader.
Benefits of Apple Wallet Car Keys
Apple Wallet Car Keys offers several benefits and conveniences for drivers. Here are some of the advantages of using Apple Wallet Car Keys:
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Convenience: With Apple Wallet Car Keys, you no longer need to carry a physical car key. Your iPhone or Apple Watch becomes your digital car key, making it more convenient to access and drive your car.
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Security: The digital car key is securely stored in the Secure Element of your device, providing a high level of security against unauthorized access.
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Easy Sharing: You can easily share your digital car key with family members or friends through the Messages app, making it convenient to lend your car to others without needing to hand over a physical key.
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Remote Access: Some car manufacturers also offer additional features such as remote start and trunk access through the Apple Wallet Car Keys, adding to the convenience of using your digital car key.
Future of Apple Wallet Car Keys
As the automotive industry continues to embrace digital innovation, we can expect to see more car manufacturers adding support for Apple Wallet Car Keys in their future models. This technology not only offers a more convenient and secure way to access and drive your car but also opens up possibilities for integration with other smart car features and services.
With Apple's continued focus on enhancing the digital experience for users, it is likely that Apple Wallet Car Keys will become a standard feature in more car models across different brands in the coming years. As such, it's an exciting time for both technology and automotive enthusiasts as we witness the evolution of digital car keys and their integration with smart devices like the iPhone and Apple Watch.
In conclusion, Apple Wallet Car Keys is a game-changing feature that provides a more seamless and secure way to access and drive your car. With support from leading car manufacturers and a growing list of compatible models, this technology is set to revolutionize the way we interact with our vehicles. As we look to the future, we can expect to see Apple Wallet Car Keys becoming a staple feature in new car models, offering an even greater level of convenience and integration with the digital ecosystem.
