Apple released the first beta of iOS 13.4 today, and it apparently has an unannounced feature that might let you unlock, lock, and start your car with your iPhone or Apple Watch, as spotted by 9to5Mac.
The first beta version of the mobile OS contains references to a “CarKey” API that will let you use your devices as keys for vehicles with NFC. Based on the internal files the publication saw, you won’t even have to authenticate with Face ID you simply have to hold your device near the reader to work, even if it’s out of battery.
Some carmakers already let you use your phone as a digital car key through their apps, but they can have some limitations. Hyundai has a digital key app, but only for Android, and the app only works with the 2020 Sonata, for example. Your car may need to have specific features, like how Volvo’s On Call app requires a vehicle with a “Volvo on Call Telematics Unit.” Perhaps Apple’s version of a digital car key would be more tightly integrated with your iPhone or Apple Watch and work with more cars.
In addition, the feature seems to have the capability to give other people access to your vehicle with their devices. You’ll have to send that trusted family member or friend an invite, which you’ll be able to do so via the Wallet app.
The pairing process actually starts with Apple’s Wallet app, though you’ll also need to have your automaker’s app to finish setting up when you link a device with a car for the first time. When you place your device on top of the NFC reader, a CarKey will show up in your Wallet app. You can then add that key to an Apple Watch.
This is only the first beta of iOS 13.4, though, and it’s unclear when the final version of that might come out or if CarKey will be included when it does.
