Apple’s digital car key technology, introduced in 2022, has been gradually adopted by various car manufacturers, including BMW, BYD, Lotus, Mercedes-Benz, and the Hyundai Group. Now, Audi has joined the ranks, bringing this convenient feature to its electric vehicle lineup for the first time with the A6 Avant e-tron.
This integration, initially spotted by Mac4Ever and later highlighted by MacRumors, marks a significant step for Audi and hints at potential adoption by Porsche, which shares the same Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture. The A6 Avant e-tron is the second model from Audi built on this platform, strengthening the possibility of Porsche incorporating Apple CarKey support in its upcoming vehicles.
How Does Apple CarKey Work?
Apple CarKey allows you to unlock and lock your compatible car using your iPhone or Apple Watch, eliminating the need for a physical key. A digital key is stored securely within your Apple Wallet, utilizing Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to communicate with your car. Simply approach your vehicle, and it will automatically unlock, or tap your device on the door handle for access.
For added security, you can require Face ID authentication before unlocking. Alternatively, Express Mode bypasses this step for faster access, allowing you to unlock your car with a simple double-tap of your iPhone’s side button or Apple Watch, similar to using Apple Pay or accessing boarding passes.
Expanding CarKey Compatibility
MacRumors previously uncovered code changes in the Apple Wallet backend suggesting impending Apple CarKey support for Volvo, Polestar, and Audi. While Volvo and Polestar have yet to implement the feature, Audi’s adoption with the A6 Avant e-tron indicates they might not be far behind.
A comprehensive list of car models compatible with Apple CarKey is available on Apple’s support page. Look for the grey key icon next to each listed model for easy identification.
The Future of Keyless Entry
Audi’s embrace of Apple CarKey signifies a growing trend towards seamless and convenient vehicle access. As more manufacturers integrate this technology, digital car keys are poised to become the standard, offering enhanced security and a streamlined user experience.
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