These cars can be unlocked by your iPhone

So far, the brands supporting CarKey technology are: BMW, BYD, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Lotus, Mercedes-Benz and Rivian. Note that only certain models from these manufacturers are compatible: it will therefore be necessary to find out beforehand to be able to benefit from them. Today, a report from MacRumors claims that three new car brands are preparing to support Apple's CarKey function: they would be Volvo, Polestar and Audi. For the moment, however, no additional details are known, whether it is the date of integration of the function or the models which will be chosen to support it.

A digital car key always with you

In a very concrete way, the CarKey function introduced at Apple's WWDC 2020 can be used in three different ways. For example, it is possible to approach your vehicle with your smartphone in your pocket to allow it to unlock the car. And conversely, moving away from it automatically locks it. It is also possible to unlock or lock the car by holding the smartphone near the door. Finally, CarKey can also control the locking of the car remotely, if you want to allow a friend or family member to get in, for example.

Note that it is also possible through this method to share the digital car key with a friend or family member using messaging applications like Messages, Mail, or even directly through AirDrop. Owners of an Apple Watch can also use their connected watch to unlock their vehicle with this function.