CarKey first made waves when Apple released it on iOS 13.4. iPhone users could access the innovative feature through the Apple Wallet app. The digital key system was first tested on the 2021 BMW 5 Series. CarKey could be publicly available on July 15th 2020. Users with updated systems iOS 13.6, iPadOS 13.6 and watchOS 6.2.8 can download it. Since its inception, the digital key has only been working for BMW models. But, that could be changing in the coming year.Â
What Cars Work With Apple CarKey?
These are the only cars that work with the digital key system as of right now:
- BMW 1-8 Series
- BMW Z4
- BMW X6 M
- BMW X5
- BMW M8
- BMW X5 M
- BMW X6
- BMW X6 M
- BMW X7
Apple Looking to Expand CarKey to Other Car Manufacturers?
Apple does not want to limit its highly profitable product any longer and recent news suggests that a change is on the horizon. Mark Gunman of Bloomberg has added more fuel to the fire by reporting that the feature is finally set to expand. It is good news for Hyundai car owners because they can see CarKey released on its new Genesis models. The expansion could be announced as early as June 2022 at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).Â
Hyundai and Kia reportedly held discussions with Apple inclining towards a massive partnership in 2021. The talks were leading to an end result of both car companies collaborating in the production of Apple Car, also known as Titan. Proceedings were halted following confirmations by the Hyundai carmakers, which seemingly angered Apple officials.Â
Is Apple CarKey Worth The Hassle?
The concept of digital car keys sounds luxurious and exciting. But Apple has marketed its product slower and as a result, digital keys are now widespread among the car community. Modern cars fully support keyless entry, you just need the car key in your pocket to access the said features.
A number of car manufacturers are supporting digital car key functions through their own applications. This makes it harder for Apple to infiltrate the market. The need for standardization is still a must, hence the creation of the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC).
Apple and BMW are the primary board members. Further additions include General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, LG Electronics, Panasonic, Samsung and Volkswagen.
It is important to note that Tesla is staying away from all the talk about Apple CarKey since they firmly function through their parent application. But, the recruitment of Toyota could be a major milestone for the CCC.
We hope to have answered all your questions about the Apple CarKey technology. Do you have any lingering thoughts? Feel free to let us know down below in the comments. Your feedback will be appreciated!
