The New “CarKey” API
The new 13.4 beta update has references to a new “CarKey” API. It allows you to hold your Apple Watch or iPhone near a car that has a built-in NFC device to use your phone as a key. Your digital key may live in your iPhone’s Wallet app, and you may even be able to share the key via the Wallet app to another Apple device, perhaps a trusted friend or a family member.
Some carmakers already let you use your phone to unlock your vehicle. However, they can have some limitations. Hyundai has a dedicated digital key app, but for Android users only, and the software only works with the 2020 model Sonata. Volvo, on the other hand, has a specific future. It requires a Volvo on Call Telematics Unit. Maybe the version made by Apple would be more integrated with your Apple Watch or iPhone and work with more vehicles.
Car Keys – Who Needs Them Anyway?
Don’t rush to get your hopes up – this is only the first beta of iOS 13.4, and it’s unclear when the final version might come out or if CarKey will even be included when it does. Let’s see how far this car tech will go.
