Apple’s digital car key technology that opens and starts vehicles with a device app is coming to Hyundai and Genesis this summer and could be available to additional motor vehicle brands soon, according to multiple media reports.
Remote lock controls via smartphones aren’t new — however, Car Key treats the phone more like a physical key. Users can bring their phone or Apple Watch to the door handle to unlock it, or place their phone in a given area to start the car. People with ultra-wideband iPhones (such as the iPhone 11 and newer) can even leave their phone in their pocket.
The car key innovation uses near-field communication (NFC) technology and initially became available with several BMW models. The feature was unveiled in 2020 and could unlock and start vehicles using a digital key stored in the digital wallet of an iPhone or Apple Watch.
See also: Google’s Android Digital Car Key Debuts on BMWs, With More Cars on the Way
Google’s Android digital car key, compatible with BMW cars, launched in December 2020. At the time Google announced that only BMW was a partner using the digital car key, but it was also working with other car manufacturers. Android Auto is available in more than 100 million cars, including most new vehicles from about 60 brands worldwide.
Proprietary iOS apps are already offered by Hyundai, including MyHyundai with Bluelink and the Genesis Intelligent Assistant, which include remote start and door unlock. The addition of Apple’s Digital Key is expected to make overall effectiveness more comprehensive with the added benefits of system-level Apple Wallet shortcuts.
Read more: NFC Fine Looms for Apple, But Competitive Shifts Costly Over Long Run
Currently, Hyundai’s NFC-based digital key feature is only available on Android phones, according to Hyundai’s website. There has been no official confirmation by either Hyundai or Genesis for Apple CarKey support, according to reports.
Digital car keys can be shared using Messages, or disabled through iCloud if a device is lost, Apple announced at its virtual WWDC20 developer conference.
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