Toyota Prepares for Apple Car Key Integration
Toyota will soon become the next automaker to add support for the Apple Car Key feature. This will allow car owners to use the Apple Wallet on their phone or Apple Watch to lock and unlock their vehicle. As cars become increasingly technological, adding this feature will make car ownership a bit simpler.
Five Years After the Technology’s Launch
It has already been five years since the initial launch of digital key support in Apple Wallet, and more and more companies are adding support for it. Earlier this week, an analyst from MacRumors reported that Apple’s server systems were updated to include Toyota in the list of companies planning to support this feature.
Toyota has not yet commented on this information, and it remains unclear which models will receive the feature first.
However, if the brand follows the pattern established by other manufacturers, the implementation should include passive entry: the car will automatically unlock when the linked Apple Wallet is nearby and lock again when the driver moves away.
How Apple Car Key Works
Apple Car Key also includes a short-range proximity feature, allowing doors to be locked or unlocked when an iPhone is brought close to the handle. A remote access feature is also available, so users can lock or unlock their car via the app without being physically near it.
Who Already Uses the Technology?
Among the brands already offering Car Key support are Audi for popular models such as the A6, Q6, and A5; BMW for most of its 2021/2022 model year and newer cars; as well as Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Lotus, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Ram, Polestar, Rivian, and Volvo. In other markets, Chinese models from BYD and Nio are also compatible with the technology.
According to the publication 9to5Mac, other automakers are joining the list. Chevrolet, Acura, GMC, Porsche, Cadillac, Lucid, Tata, Smart, and a number of Chinese brands, including Voyah, Hongqi, WEY, and Chery, are reportedly already signed up and plan to offer support in the near future.
The adoption of digital keys is becoming increasingly common, reflecting the overall trend towards the convergence of mobile devices and vehicles. For traditional automakers like Toyota, this is a step towards meeting the expectations of modern buyers, who increasingly value convenience and the wireless integration of their gadgets into daily life, including their car. The successful integration of such systems can become an additional competitive advantage in the market.