Millions of Android users can use their phones to unlock cars using ‘virtual key’ and there's an easy way to set it up

With the decades you've now likely to have spent having the trusty device at your disposal, chances are you've come to realise your smartphone can do pretty much anything.

Taking photos for Instagram, calling and messaging friends, online shopping, paying for your coffee dates, playing games — there's nothing your smartphone can't do.

But did you know your Android-based phone can also open your car? Well you do know!

Thanks to Google's 'Digital Car Key' feature, you can ditch your key fob entirely.

Better yet, so long as your phone can run Android 12 and up, you'll be able to make use of this handy, time-saving feature.

You can lock and start your car with Google's digital car key. (Hispanolistic via Getty images.)

The digital car key feature was originally introduced in 2021 as part of the Android 12 operating system. The feature relies on NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, common to modern smartphones, to confirm your identity and open your car.

If you want to take the digital car key for a test drive yourself, we have all you need to know.

What you need to set up a digital car key

Not everyone's car and phone can make use of Google's digital car key feature. With that in mind, you'll need these things before you get going:

• Pixel 6 and later (Includes the Pixel Fold and Pixel 8 Pro)
• Samsung Galaxy S21 and later
• Android 12 and up
• Stable internet connection
• Google Wallet app
• Compatible car

For a full list of supported vehicles, you can check the compatibility list available on the Android website. Here, you can check your own make and model to ensure it works with the digital car key feature.

How to set up your digital car key on Android

To start using your digital car key, follow the simple steps below:

• Open car manufacturer website
• Find 'digital car key' and follow on screen instructions
• Sign in with Google account
• Agree to TOS
• Tap 'Start pairing' to pair your phone to your car
• Add digital key to Google Wallet

With the digital car key enabled on your phone, you'll be able to lock, unlock and start your car, all without spending time looking for your car key fob. With it running on your phone, holding the back of your device (where the NFC tech is located) near the door will open up the door.

Both your android phone and your car need to be supported in order to use the digital car key. (miniseries via Getty images.)

The feature also allows for 'passive entry.' According to Google, with passive entry you don't have to hold your phone near the door of your car.

Instead, your device will 'automatically unlock your car doors' if you're nearby, start your cat when you're inside it, and even lock your doors when you leave.

Despite this very handy feature, it's best keeping a spare key fob at arms reach in case of emergencies. As the digital car key feature requires an internet connection to work, so you don't want to end up locked outside your vehicle after driving to an area with a sub-par connection.