Apple Wallet may soon add support for digital car keys for Audi, Volvo, and Polestar models. Since its launch in 2020, Apple’s Car Keys feature lets users store digital car keys within their iPhone or Apple Watch, offering a convenient and secure way to lock, unlock, and start compatible vehicles. Currently, Car Keys only works with select models from brands like Hyundai, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. However, recent updates to Apple Wallet’s backend code suggest an expansion that could make Audi, Volvo, and Polestar the newest brands to join this feature
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Apple Car Keys, available since 2020, lets users store a digital version of their car key in the Wallet app, where they can lock, unlock, and start their vehicle. This works by bringing the Apple device close to the car’s NFC reader, typically located near the door handle. For cars that support Bluetooth, users can lock and unlock their vehicle from further away. Initially compatible with a limited range of car brands like BMW and Hyundai, Apple now appears to be preparing to expand this feature to include Audi, Volvo, and Polestar, according to backend updates in the Wallet app. However, the specific models and timeline for this rollout remain undisclosed
Convenience & Flexibility
Car Keys offers a practical alternative to traditional car keys. Users can share digital keys via AirDrop or messaging apps like iMessage and WhatsApp, making it easy to grant access to friends and family. The shared digital key can be canceled anytime through the Wallet app, adding a layer of control and flexibility. Google also introduced similar support for Android devices, allowing cross-platform sharing between iPhone and Android users, enhancing accessibility across different operating systems.
Security Considerations
Though Apple’s Car Keys feature is well-received, recent security concerns have emerged around NFC technology, as tools like the Flipper Zero can clone NFC data, enabling unauthorized access to certain vehicles. Canadian authorities have voiced worries about the potential misuse of NFC technology, and Flipper Zero’s recent upgrade for faster copying could fuel further concerns about the vulnerability of digital keys. Despite these issues, Apple Wallet’s Car Keys feature continues to grow in popularity, promising a secure and convenient alternative to conventional keys.
TF Summary: What’s Next
As Apple enhances Car Keys, adding brands like Audi, Volvo, and Polestar extends the appeal of its digital car keys. While security concerns around NFC technology persist, Apple will need to ensure robust safeguards for users who embrace this added convenience. Future updates on compatible models and regions will reveal the extent of this expansion and its impact on digital vehicle access. The next few months will likely see more announcements — with Apple possibly sharing more concrete details on this anticipated rollout.