Using a phone is no longer limited to electronic payments or opening apps, as iPhone users can now unlock and start their cars without taking the phone out of their pocket, thanks to the Apple CarKey feature that turns the phone into a digital car key.

With expanding support from car manufacturers for this technology, it has become more practical and widespread compared to when it was first launched in 2020.

What is Apple CarKey?

Apple introduced the CarKey feature with iOS 14, which allows adding the digital car key to the Wallet app, according to a report published by Engadget and reviewed by Al Arabiya Business.

After setting up the feature, the user can unlock or lock the car as well as start the engine.

Apple also provides Express Mode, which allows performing all these tasks without needing to unlock the phone or even take it out of the pocket or bag.

How do digital keys work?

Apple relies on the Digital Key standard issued by the Car Connectivity Consortium, the same standard used by Google on Android phones.

The technology works through several communication methods:

- NFC to unlock and lock the car just by bringing the phone close to it.

- Bluetooth to unlock the car remotely and communicate with its systems.

- U1 chip and Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology to precisely locate the phone, allowing the car to detect the user's approach and automatically unlock the doors.

The digital key is stored in the phone in an encrypted manner to ensure a high level of security.

Which phones support the feature?

To use Apple CarKey, the user must have:

- iPhone XS or later.

- iPhone SE (2nd generation) or later.

The phone must run iOS 13 or later, with an NFC chip.

As for the automatic proximity-based unlocking feature, it requires a U1 chip supporting Ultra Wideband technology.

Which cars are compatible?

When the feature launched, it was limited to some BMW models, but the list of supported manufacturers has expanded significantly.

The brands currently supporting digital keys via Apple include: Audi, BMW, BYD, EXEED, Hyundai, Genesis, Kia, Lotus, Mercedes-Benz, NIO, Polestar, Ram, Rivian, and Volvo.

Supported models vary by manufacturer, so Apple recommends checking car compatibility with the manufacturer.

How to add a car key to an iPhone

Setup steps vary by manufacturer, but they often include:

1. Open the car manufacturer's app or use the link sent by the manufacturer via email or text message.

2. Link the car to the user's account.

3. Add the key to the Wallet app.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions; it may require bringing the phone close to an NFC reader inside the car to complete the pairing process.

After completion, the key becomes available in the Wallet app and can be used immediately.

Sharing the key with others

Apple also allows sharing the digital key with family or friends.

The user can:

- Send the key via the Wallet app.

- Add a name for the key.

- Set a one-time activation code for added security.

- Choose the person to send the key to.

After identity verification, the other party can use the car in the same way.

What happens if you lose your phone?

If an iPhone is lost, the user can activate Lost Mode via the Find My app, which automatically disables all digital keys stored on the phone.

Keys that have been shared with others will continue to work until they are manually revoked.

Another notable advantage is that Apple confirms that some digital keys using Express Mode continue to work for up to five hours after the phone's battery dies, giving the user a chance to unlock the car even if the device shuts down due to power depletion.

Nevertheless, the company always recommends keeping the traditional key as a backup option in emergencies.

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