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Apple’s iPhones and Apple Watches have supported NFC (Near Field Communication) for some time, and now those NFC capabilities can be used to allow Apple users to lock, unlock, and start compatible NFC-enabled vehicles using their iPhone or Apple Watch in lieu of a physical key. This feature is called “Car Keys”, and it’s a convenient way to interact with your car digitally. Let’s dive into how Car Keys works and what you need to know:
What Is Car Keys?
Car Keys is a digital protocol that lets an iPhone or Apple Watch with NFC capabilities control an NFC-capable vehicle.
Unlike traditional physical keys, Car Keys are stored digitally inside the Wallet app on your device.
How Does Car Keys Work?
Unlocking (or locking) a vehicle with Car Keys involves holding your Apple Watch or iPhone near an NFC reader located inside the car.
When the NFC reader detects the digital key stored in your device, the locking mechanism in the car activates.
You can unlock a car simply by tapping a door handle with your iPhone or Apple Watch.
Authentication is done through Face ID or Touch ID, but there’s also an Express Mode that allows for faster unlocking without authentication.
Starting Your Car with Car Keys
To start a compatible car, place your iPhone on a reader or wireless charger located within the vehicle.
The NFC connection will verify your digital key, allowing you to start the car.
Setting Up Car Keys
Car Keys setup involves placing your iPhone on top of an NFC reader inside the vehicle.
The initial pairing process may take several minutes and requires entering a Car Keys code provided by your car dealer or using the manufacturer’s app.
Additional Features
Car Keys can also be used for sharing digital keys and restricting access.
For example, you can limit maximum speeds for a teenager using a digital key.
Remember that Car Keys’ availability depends on automobile manufacturers implementing this feature, similar to how CarPlay works. So, if you have an NFC-enabled vehicle, keep an eye out for Car Keys support!
