Rivian has started rolling out support for Apple’s digital car keys through the Wallet app on iPhone and Apple Watch. This was first promised over a year ago when Rivian introduced its R1S and R1T models. Now, thanks to an update spotted by Aaron Perris from MacRumors, it seems the feature is finally active.
This digital key allows you to unlock your Rivian by simply holding your iPhone or Apple Watch near the car’s NFC reader. If your vehicle supports this feature, you won’t even need to take your phone out of your pocket. This is made possible with Ultra Wideband technology, which makes using your car more convenient.
Rivian already had its own digital key feature through its app. However, integrating with Apple Wallet means tighter links for iPhone users, such as key sharing and an “Express Mode.” This mode lets the key work for hours, even if your device’s battery is low.
Despite this step forward, Rivian still shows no interest in supporting Apple CarPlay. CEO RJ Scaringe believes that allowing CarPlay would go against their goal of providing a completely integrated experience in their vehicles. Interestingly, Rivian has adopted other Apple features, including Apple Music with Spatial Audio support.
### The Growing Popularity of Digital Car Keys
The rise of digital car keys reflects a larger trend in the automotive industry. A recent survey by PwC found that 60% of car buyers expressed interest in smart features that enhance connectivity and convenience. Digital keys not only improve security but also pave the way for additional functionalities, like remote start and geolocation.
As more companies embrace this technology, Rivian’s choice to integrate with Apple is a smart move, especially considering the growing number of iPhone users. It’s expected that digital keys will soon become the norm in the automotive sector.
In summary, Rivian’s new Apple Wallet support signifies an exciting shift toward modern vehicle access solutions. As more companies innovate in this area, we can anticipate a future where keys may become a thing of the past.
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iPhone Car Keys, Rivian