Apple's Car Key feature, which allows iPhone users to unlock and start their vehicles via NFC technology, is expanding to include three more major automakers. According to code references found in the iPhone Wallet app, Volvo, Polestar, and Audi vehicles will soon join the growing list of manufacturers supporting this innovative feature.
Currently, Apple's Car Key is compatible with select models from BMW, BYD, Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia. With the potential addition of Volvo, Polestar, and Audi, many more iPhone users will have the convenience of locking, unlocking, and even starting their cars using their devices.
Car Key leverages Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to function. Once drivers store their keys digitally in the iPhone Wallet app, they can unlock their cars by simply standing near them or tapping the phone to an NFC reader inside the vehicle to start it. The system also allows remote access, providing extra flexibility for users.
While this feature's exact launch date for the new brands hasn't been officially confirmed, the code update indicates it's actively being worked on. For iPhone and Apple Watch users, the inclusion of these three automakers will significantly broaden the reach of Apple's digital car key functionality.