For better and worse,smartphoneshave arguably become the keys to our lives. From trains, planes, buildings, wallets, and even finding jobs, the pocket-sized super computers really are taking over. However, cars are actually lagging a little behind, but there are a growing number of vehicles that supportApple car keyif you have a compatible iPhone. EvenAndroidusers have their own version of the technology.
So how do you go about using an iPhone as a key fob? Here’s what you need to know about compatibility, basic instructions, and more.
Is your car Apple Car Key ready? How to find out and what to do if it’s not
The list of vehicles that work with Apple Car Key is short, but there is another option if yours isn’t on the list.
Which iPhones support Apple car key?
Passive entry requires a new device
To use the feature, you’ll need at least an iPhone XS or second-generation iPhone SE. You can also use a pairedApple Watch, but the minimum is a Series 5 or SE. Any device you use should be updated to the latest possible version of iOS or watchOS.
For passive entry – that is, unlocking a car by walking towards it – the requirements are higher. You need an iPhone 11 and/or an Apple Watch Series 6, since anything released prior won’t have the necessary UWB (ultra-wideband) radio.
To use the feature, you’ll need at least an iPhone XS or second-generation iPhone SE.
Which cars support Apple car key?
BMW leads the pack
There aren’t many supported models so far, and you’ll notice that most of them belong to BMW. You’re also not going to find any budget options – the closest you’ll come are vehicles from Kia and Hyundai.
Here’s a breakdown by brand as of early August 2024. Check with dealers when you’re shopping, since new models are launching all the time, and some existing ones could potentially be updated with Apple support.
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How to use your iPhone as a car key fob
Initial setup
How to add and install apps to Apple CarPlay for your next road trip
While it’s easy and intuitive enough, you should be aware of these particular steps.
Using Apple car key
Once you’ve got a key working, there are three forms of entry, depending on how your vehicle is equipped:
Where is Apple’s next-generation CarPlay?
The next-generation of Apple CarPlay is coming, but it’ll be a while before your Honda dashboard looks like a Rivian or a Tesla.
Sharing a key
You’ll need an activation code
How to use Google Maps in Apple CarPlay
Google Maps is often the best in-car navigation option.
