IPhone Will Replace Keys From New BMWs

At WWDC 2020, Apple unveiled a new operating system for the iPhone - iOS 14. Among other things, it introduced the CarKey function, which allows you to use a smartphone instead of a car key. BMW models will receive it first.

• Apple CarKey uses NFC (Near Field Communication) protocol. In order to unlock the car, you need to bring your iPhone to the doorknob and verify your identity using the Face ID scanner or the Touch ID fingerprint scanner. To start the engine, you need to put your smartphone on wireless charging.

• The smartphone-key can be used by the owner of the car personally or transfer access to the car via iMessage to family and friends - it is allowed to create up to 5 digital copies of the virtual key. For different users, you can set the maximum vehicle speed, audio volume and other parameters. Restrictions can be configured both in the car's multimedia system and on a smartphone via Apple Wallet.
• To use the digital key, the BMW Connected app must be installed on the iPhone. The function will continue to work even if the smartphone battery runs out, but in this case the owner of the car will have no more than five hours. Plus, it can be used with Apple Watch.
• Apple CarKey will be available on 15 BMW models released after July 1, 2020. The list includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 series, X5, X6, X7, X5M, X6M, M5, M8 and Z4. The digital key is supported by smartphones iPhone XR, iPhone XS and newer, as well as Apple Watch Series 5.