- Apple
World – The car owner probably soon consider buying a car that supports the Apple Car Key feature. British sports car company Lotus is reportedly a potential candidate to use it, followed by Mercedes-Benz.
Car Key is an Apple feature that allows users to use their iPhone and Apple Watch as an alternative to a key ring or physical key.
When used with compatible models, Car Key is capable of locking and unlocking, and starting the vehicle. Passive entry, proximity, and remote access are also supported on some car models.
These features are stored in the Wallet app on iPhone and Apple Watch. Users also have the option to share or not with other iPhone users.
Newer iPhone models can even continue to use Car Key if the iPhone loses power.
BMW has the most vehicles on offer with several 2021 models and newer cars. While Kia, Hyundai, Genesis, and BYD round out the list of brands offering Car Key.
Last month, Nicolas Alvarez on Twitter shared evidence that British sports car company Lotus looks set to launch Car Key as well.
Mercedes-Benz officially announced this news at the same time as the E-Class lineup. With the digital vehicle key, the E-Class can be started and locked only by the driver carrying a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch.
Ilustrasi Apple iPhone.
- Techradar
Key sharing is also possible where various digital channels can be used to invite family members or friends to use the E-Class.
Thus, the primary user of the Mercedes account can grant different rights, giving access only to the vehicle or also allowing it to be driven.
The vehicle can recognize multiple users at once, and the digital key can be shared by up to 16 people. Sharing can be done via AirDrop, iMessage, and other messaging services. Recipients can then add it to their own Apple Wallet.
The Digital Vehicle Key only requires a network connection for a one-time setup and sharing. After that, it can work without a cell phone signal, for example in an underground garage.
The system uses Bluetooth and ultra-wideband (UWB) technology. This digital radio technology for short-range use is also considered very safe.
With Lotus still waiting, Mercedes-Benz becomes the sixth car brand to adopt Car Key support.
CarPlay is another driver-focused Apple feature, that has been around longer and appears in almost all car brands today although General Motors wants to buck that trend with its EV models.
