Apple will roll out CarKey, a feature that uses NFC technology to unlock and start your vehicle, in iOS 14. The feature will also come to iOS 13. Apple says its working on an industry-wide standard that would use its new U1 ultra widebandchip instead of relying solely on NFC. The first vehicle to get CarKey support will be the BMW 5 Series, which comes out in July.
CarKey pairs a vehicle to an iPhone or Apple Watch, and allows users to share their key digitally with family and friends. The whole system operates via Apple Wallet. Tap your phone against the door handle or outside NFC reader to unlock the vehicle, then place your phone on the Qi wireless charger, press the ignition button, and you’re off.
The ability to use your phone as a car key isn’t new, but it’s far from mainstream. In 2018, a group of major smartphone and automotive brands in the Car Connectivity Consortium unveiled a standardized approach to NFC-unlocking technology, laying the groundwork for a feature like CarKey. Apple, Audi, BMW, General Motors, Hyundai, LG, Panasonic, Samsung and Volkswagen were involved.
CarKey could be using the Car Connectivity Consortium’s Digital Key Release 2.0 specification, which was officially finalized in May. The specification “leverages Near Field Communication (NFC) technology for contactless communication between smartphones and vehicles, and supports a scalable architecture for mass adoption while reducing costs.” Apple’s SK Yong, who is a manager of wireless technologies and ecosystems at the company, according to his LinkedIn, is listed as a director on the Consortium’s board.
There’s no word yet on additional vehicles that will support CarKey, but rest assured, this is just the beginning of digital-key technology. Apple also teased the next generation of CarKey, which will use an Ultra Wideband system allowing users to unlock their vehicles without removing their iPhone from a pocket or bag.
