More cars that can be opened with an iPhone

Apple's digital key, introduced in 2020, allows you to replace the traditional counterpart with an iPhone or Apple Watch. This is a really convenient solution, but it is being accepted slowly on the market.

Many automobile manufacturers have already included the ability to open the car from the level of the smartphone application. To start the engine, however, an actual key was still required. As a result, we were dealing with curiosity rather than a truly practical answer.

The digital key is far more exciting because it not only opens the automobile but also starts the engine. All of this without the need for a traditional key. It is worth noting that the function is compatible with both iPhones and Apple Watch.

The digital key is stored in the Wallet application, alongside payment cards. To activate the function, simply bring the smartphone or smartwatch to the stated location. This works in the same way as contactless payments do.

Furthermore, in the most recent version, we no longer need to take the iPhone out of our pockets. The entire system is powered by the UWB module, providing an experience comparable to that of a keyless system.

As previously stated, we are dealing with a really noteworthy solution. The more convenient the option of sharing access to the car is included in the package - the key may be given in a message to another user.

Unfortunately, despite obvious advantages, the digital key has been very sluggish to gain market acceptance. So far, it has only been available in the most recent BMW models. Fortunately, other businesses chose to adopt it.

According to the most recent source, Hyundai is interested in the solution. The digital key will be available on select models starting in 2022, according to Apple's website, including the Kia Niro, Genesis G90, and Genesis GV60.

Unfortunately, we have not been able to determine whether the feature is already generally available on the aforementioned models or whether it requires an update from the automobile manufacturer. A spokeswoman for the Kia brand merely stated that further information will be released in the coming weeks.

Let us hope that more firms, such as Volkswagen, Skoda, and Toyota, will soon follow the case. This would help to popularize the solution and reach a larger number of potential users.