Apple Wallet is expanding its features—soon, drivers from 13 new car brands will be able to use their iPhone as a car key, making traditional key fobs a thing of the past.
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Apple’s newest update is sure to be a welcome relief for those who have ever struggled to find their car keys while juggling armfuls worth of shopping. Apple just announced its Wallet App will soon enable you to unlock and start vehicles of 13 new car manufacturers using your iPhone or Apple Watch. Forget the frantic pocket-patting—your car keys are going digital.
Which brands will be joining Apple wallet in the future?
Apple is not the first company to venture into the digital car key world. The 2020 feature is designed to simplify life. It already allows you to use your phone or smartwatch to unlock, lock, or even start your car—no keyfob required. You may be able use remote features, proximity entry or passive entry depending on the motor you have.
Now, thirteen more car brands are set to join in the fun. If you own one of the following makes, you can soon leave your traditional key at home.
Acura, Cadillac, Chery, Chevrolet, GMC, Hongqi, Lucid, Porsche, Rivian, Smart, Tata, Voyah, and WEY
Apple’s decision is part of an overall push to replace the physical wallet. Apple’s digital key for cars will now be supported by 33 brands.
How does Apple’s Car Key actually work?
It’s more than a trick. Apple’s Car Key feature is used by many drivers in the world and it’s more than just a trick. Depending on your car’s manufacturer and technology, there are different ways to interact with it:
- Passive EntryYou can unlock your car by simply walking up to it. You can hop in your car, hit the start button, and be on your way. When you leave your car, it locks automatically.
- Proximity featuresHolding your phone or watch close to the door or ignition will lock or start seamlessly.
- Remote ControlYou forgot to lock your vehicle? You can do it anywhere with your mobile device. You could even check the boot or switch on the lights.
Apple Wallet combines convenience with security and a hint of James Bond.
When can I use my Brand car key?
There’s no exact date for when these new car brands will join Apple Wallet, but the announcement came at WWDC during the iOS 26 presentation—so expect it later this year, probably by Christmas.
Apple has not revealed a specific rollout date, but if your car is one of the brands listed above, you should keep an eye out for your next software upgrade. Apple is set to release iOS 18 this autumn, which will include the new features. Before you know it, you could be scanning your smartphone instead of turning a keyboard.
Apple and car manufacturers will soon work together to eliminate the need for drivers to dig around for their keys. Apple Wallet, with its growing list of brands and features, is becoming the ultimate digital Swiss Army tool for modern drivers.
The humble car key could soon become a thing in the past, as our lives are increasingly reliant on our smartphones. Apple will make it a smooth journey.