# Apple’s Car Key Feature Broadens to Additional Brands: Essential Information
Apple’s cutting-edge Car Key feature is expanding its reach to include three new car manufacturers: Polestar, Volvo, and Audi. This update stems from recent code findings highlighted by MacRumors, suggesting that Apple is gearing up to support digital car keys for select models from these brands. While particular models and a release schedule have yet to be revealed, this expansion signifies an important move in Apple’s mission to weave its technology into the automotive landscape.
## What is Apple’s Car Key Feature?
Launched at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in 2020, Apple’s Car Key feature allows users to digitally store their car keys within the Wallet app on their iPhones. This capability lets users lock, unlock, and start their cars directly from their devices, offering a modern and convenient alternative to conventional car keys.
### Key Features of Car Key
The Car Key feature includes several functions that enhance user interaction:
– **Passive Entry**: Your car automatically unlocks as you approach with your iPhone. Once inside, you can start the vehicle, and it locks again as you walk away.
– **Proximity Access**: Users can easily lock, unlock, and start their cars by holding their device near the door handle or key reader.
– **Remote Control**: The Wallet app enables users to lock and unlock their cars from a distance, adding extra convenience.
– **Express Mode**: This option allows users to access their vehicle without needing to unlock their device or verify using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.
– **Key Sharing**: Car keys can be shared with others via Messages, Mail, or AirDrop, simplifying the process of granting access to friends or family.
## Current Support and Future Prospects
Currently, the Car Key feature supports a variety of automotive brands, including BMW, BYD, Kia, and Mercedes-Benz. Recently, Rivian also incorporated Car Key support into its second-generation R1T and R1S models. The inclusion of Polestar, Volvo, and Audi will further enhance the appeal and functionality of Apple’s digital key system.
For those keen on discovering which vehicles currently support the Car Key feature, an extensive list is accessible through dedicated guides on numerous tech websites.
## Conclusion
The extension of Apple’s Car Key feature to encompass Polestar, Volvo, and Audi vehicles signifies a major leap in the melding of technology with automotive convenience. As digital solutions become more commonplace in our lives, features like Car Key not only improve user interaction but also set the stage for a future where traditional car keys may be rendered unnecessary. Stay tuned for updates on specific models and release timelines as Apple continues its innovations in this domain.
For further information and updates, keep an eye on tech news sources and Apple’s official communications.
