Experts say Apple could be set to release digital car keys soon but only for certain vehicles
Carrying around your car keys is just another hassle of adult life, and if not for a bulky set of keys jangling around in your pocket, what if you leave them somewhere or even lock them inside your vehicle?
Thankfully, Apple could be working on expanding its lineup of digital car keys, taking the faff out always making sure you have a set of keys or having to hide a spare under a plant pot.
Apple has already turned the tables on how we handle our money, and instead of carrying wallets with us, many now completely rely on Apple Pay.
Digital car keys are already supported by some vehicle types, but now, a whole garage of possibilities could be opened up.
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Apple first introduced digital car key support back in 2022, with a list of brands available on the CarPlay page. The tech giant currently supports numerous BMW and Mercedes-Benz models, but according to new code unearthed by MacRumours, others could soon be revving their engines.
Although MacRumours doesn't give us much to go on, the site mentions how 'certain' models of Volvo, Polestar, and Audi could be supported next.
While all three are already supported, it's pretty limited in terms of which cars are currently compatible with CarPlay.
Apple's CarPlay is the rival to Android's Android Auto, offering much more than just digital car keys. Letting you do everything from navigating to making calls while driving, you can also access third-party apps like Spotify while remaining safe behind the wheel.
You don't just unlock your car using your Apple Wallet, you can even go as far as driving using your iPhone or Apple Watch Ultra.
CarPlay's unlock ability is currently only working with selected 2021 car models.
As well as sharing keys with friends and family, they'll also work up to five hours after an iPhone's battery has run out.
Cars notably need an NFC reader, which discounts a lot of older models. Still, it's good to see that a much bigger CarPlay fleet could soon be rolling out.
The introduction of the iPhone 16 and iOS 18 are 'driving' Apple into a new future, so it makes sense that we have a shiny set of wheels also by our side.
Apple responded to UNILAD Tech's request for comment but wouldn't confirm or deny whether new cars would soon be getting CarKey support.