Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
Shanghai-headquartered EV maker Nio is set to support Apple’s digital car key functionality, which allows iPhone and Apple Watch users to unlock, lock, and start their vehicles.
According to MacRumors’ contributor Aaron, who cites information discovered on Apple’s backend, Nio will automakers such as BMW, BYD, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Lotus, Mercedes-Benz, and Rivian in adopting Apple’s Car Key technology for select models. Besides Nio, Audi and both Geely-backed brands Volvo and Polestar are also preparing to adopt the technology.
The feature, introduced by Apple at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in 2020, enables users with an iPhone XS or later (including the iPhone SE) and Apple Watch Series 5 or later (including the Apple Watch SE) to use them as a virtual car key.
The vehicle unlocks when the driver approaches with their device in hand. Once inside, it can be started without needing a traditional key, and it locks itself as the driver departs.
Written by Cláudio Afonso | LinkedIn | X
