Back in 2020, Apple introduced the Car Key feature with iOS 14 and watchOS 7. The feature allows users to unlock and start their vehicle by using NFC-based digital car keys through iPhone or Apple Watch.
BMW was one of the first automobile manufacturers adopting the new tech on its 2021 5 series models. Later on, other manufacturers join in the race and adopted the new technology. But what is the complete list of cars that support the Car Key feature with Apple Wallet?
Let’s find out.
What is Apple Car Key?
Apple Car Key feature lets you store digital version of your vehicle’s key in the Wallet app, then you can use it to lock, unlock, and start your car.
To unlock the car, you need to place your iPhone or Apple Watch close to driver’s side door. To start the car, you need to place your iPhone on wireless charger available in your car. However, these implementations vary depending on different cars and car manufacturers:
Passive Entry: When you approach your car with your iPhone or Apple Watch, it will automatically get unlock and you can start it after entering the car. When you walk away from your car, it will lock. Feature works with iPhone 11 or later, or Apple Watch Series 6 or later.
Proximity: In this case, you need to place your iPhone or Watch close to driver’s side door to unlock and put it on wireless charger to start the car.
Remotely: As the name suggests, you can unlock, lock, or start your car from the Wallet app. The feature works only with iPhone 11 or later, or Apple Watch Series 6 or later. Also, keep in mind that you need to be in Bluetooth range of your car.
When you store a digital car key in your wallet, it will automatically enable Express Mode functionality, which allows you to use the car key feature without unlocking your device with Touch ID or Face ID. You can also share your digital car key with friends and family.
List of Cars that Support Car Key
Here’s the complete list of cars that support Car Key in Apple Wallet feature.
BMW
- 2021 – 2023 1 Series
- 2021 – 2023 2 Series
- 2021 – 2023 3 Series
- 2021 – 2023 4 Series
- 2021 – 2023 5 Series
- 2021 – 2023 6 Series
- 2021 – 2023 8 Series
- 2021 – 2023 X5
- 2021 – 2023 X6
- 2021 – 2023 X7
- 2021 – 2023 X5 M
- 2021 – 2023 X6 M
- 2021 – 2023 Z4
- 2022 – 2023 i4
- 2022 – 2023 iX
- 2022 – 2023 iX1
- 2022 – 2023 iX3
- 2023 i3
- 2023 i7
- 2024 i5
BYD
- 2022 – 2023 HAN
Genesis
- 2023 GV60
- 2023 G90
Hyundai
- 2023 Palisade
- 2023 IONIQ 6
- 2024 Kona EV
- 2024 Santa Fe
Kia
- 2023 Telluride
- 2023 Niro
- 2024 Seltos
- 2024 EV9
Mercedes-Benz
- 2024 E‑Class
Rivian
- R1T (second-generation)
- R1S (second-generation)
For the time being, the car key compatibility is limited to these cars only. We will see more automobile manufacturers acquiring the new technology.
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