Key Takeaways
- If your iPhone and car are compatible, you’ll be prompted to add the key to the iOS Wallet app.
- Key input comes in three forms: passive, proximity, and remote.
- You can share your keys with others, restricting their permissions as needed.
For better or worse, our smartphones have become the key to so many things in our lives: trains, planes, buildings, wallets, and even finding a job. Cars are actually a little behind, but more and more cars support Apple Car Key if you have a compatible iPhone. Android users have their own version of the technology.
So how do you use your iPhone as a key fob? Here’s what you need to know about compatibility and basic steps.
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Which iPhones support Apple Car Key?
Passive entry requires new devices
To use this feature, you need at least an iPhone XS or second-generation iPhone SE. You can also use a paired Apple Watch, but it must be at least a Series 5 or SE. All devices you use must be updated to the latest version of iOS or watchOS.
For passive entry, i.e. walking up to your car to unlock it, the requirements are higher: you’ll need either an iPhone 11 or an Apple Watch Series 6, or both, as earlier releases don’t have the necessary UWB (ultra-wideband) radio.
Which cars support Apple Car Key?
BMW takes the lead
You’ll notice that there aren’t many models supported right now, mostly BMW cars, and you won’t find any low-cost options either – the closest you’ll get are Kia and Hyundai cars.
Below is a breakdown by brand as of early August 2024. New models are being released all the time, and some existing models may be updated with Apple Support, so be sure to check with your retailer when purchasing.
BMW
- 2021-(present) 1 series
- 2021-(present) 2 series
- 2021-(present) 3 series
- 2021-present: 4 series
- 2021-(present) 5 series
- 2021-(present) 6 series
- 2021-(present) 7 Series
- 2021-(present) 8 series
- 2021-(present) X5
- 2021-(present) X6
- 2021-(present) X7
- 2021-(present) X5 M
- 2021-(present) X6 M
- 2021-(present) Z4
- 2022-(present) i4
- 2022-(present) iX
- 2022-(present) iX1
- 2022-(present) iX3
- 2023-(present) i3
- 2023-(present) i7
- 2024 – (present) i5
BYD
- 2022-(Present) Chinese (not available in the US or Canada)
Book of Genesis
- 2023-(present) GV60
- 2023-(present) G90
Hyundai
- 2023-(present) Palisade
- 2023-(present) Ionic 6
- 2024 and onwards Kona EV
Kia
- 2023-(present) Telluride
- 2023-(present) Niro
- 2024-(present) Seltos
- 2024-(present) EV9
Lotus
Mercedes-Benz
How to Use Your iPhone as a Car Key Fob
Initial setting
BMW
- If you’re prompted, open your car manufacturer’s app, email, or text message and follow the instructions. Some cars might show instructions on the dashboard display.
- At some point, your iPhone will automatically switch to the Wallet app. Tap Continue When you’re there.
- If prompted, bring your iPhone next to the NFC/key reader in your car and hold it there until pairing is complete.
- If your keys don’t automatically appear in the Wallet app on your paired Apple Watch, Watch App On iPhone Wallet and Apple Payafter that addition It’s next to the key.
Use Apple Car Key
BMW / Pocket-lint
Once you have a working key, you can enter in three ways, depending on your vehicle’s equipment.
- passive: This is only supported by UWB-enabled cars and Apple devices, allowing you to unlock, start and lock your car just by carrying your device. Apple’s technology is smart enough to be context aware – for example, your car should only start when you get in.
- Proximity: It relies on NFC: to control the lock or ignition, you hold your Apple device close to an NFC reader, and for the ignition, you need to press the car’s start button at the same time.
- remote: As long as you’re within Bluetooth range, you can use your iPhone to lock/unlock your car and control a variety of other functions. You won’t be able to start your car this way. Sorry, winter drivers.
Key Sharing
- Select your keys in the Wallet app on your iPhone.
- Tap share It’s an icon that resembles a square with an upward arrow.
- Choose how you want to share. Options include Message, Email, WhatsApp, AirDrop, and more.
- When prompted, name the shared key and set permissions.
- An activation code can be set as an option, but some keys automatically include the vehicle code.
- Choose who you want to share with.
- Tap Continueand authenticate your iPhone.
- Please follow further instructions.
- If you have an activation code or vehicle code, it will be displayed here. You can share it digitally with the key recipient, or show it to them in person if you’re concerned about security.
- If prompted, the recipient may need to bring the iPhone near a key fob or other item to complete the process.
