In 2020, Apple introduced a digital car key feature within its Wallet app, enabling users to lock, unlock, and start compatible vehicles using their iPhones or Apple Watches. This innovative feature is available from select automakers, including brands like Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo, among others, with plans for broader availability in the future. Apple has a webpage listing vehicle models that support the iPhone car key function; however, this list has not been updated recently. Our compilation provides the latest information on compatible vehicles across various manufacturers.
The digital car key feature offers three levels of functionality, as detailed in Apple’s support documents. The options include:
1. Passive entry to lock, unlock, and start the car. 2.
Proximity-based locking and unlocking. 3. Remote locking and unlocking. With Express Mode, users can operate their Wallet app key without needing to unlock their iPhones or authenticate through Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.
To use this feature, an iPhone XS or newer, or an Apple Watch Series 5 or newer, is required, while passive entry specifically demands an iPhone 11 or newer or an Apple Watch Series 6 or newer. As for existing compatible models, brands like Audi and BMW have numerous offerings ranging from the 2025 and newer A5 and Q5 to 2021 and newer models across various BMW series. Moreover, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo have also embraced this technology, with specific model years supporting the feature. Looking ahead, Apple announced at WWDC 2025 that additional manufacturers, such as Acura, Chevrolet, and Porsche, will soon introduce models compatible with iPhone car keys, further expanding the feature’s availability.
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