BMW Digital Car Key Plus is Now Available for Android via Pixel and Samsung—Access Car with Smartphone

Isaiah Richard, Tech Times 24 April 2023, 09:04 pm

A famous feature for the iPhone and iOS has landed in the Android operating system now, and it is BMW's Digital Car Key Plus that expands its capabilities to other users. Cars are smart now and most may connect to the internet or be able to read NFC signals from smartphones to verify that this is their owner and let them in or start the car, depending on their needs.

Forgetting one's key fob would no longer be an issue for BMW owners, especially as any smartphone will do, as long as it is compatible with the feature.

BMW Digital Car Key Plus Now Available on Android for Access

(Photo : BMW)

BMW has announced the expansion of its Digital Car Key technology to Android smartphones. The Digital Car Key Plus allows Android users, specifically those with Pixel and Samsung devices, to securely unlock and start their BMW vehicles using just their smartphones.

The Digital Car Key Plus utilizes near-field communication (NFC) technology with ultra-wideband technology (UWB), which enables secure communication between the smartphone and the vehicle when held nearby.

BMW owners can simply approach their vehicle with their Android devices in hand, and the car will automatically unlock without the need to physically interact with the phone or use a traditional key.

The Digital Car Key Plus builds on BMW's existing technology, which was initially introduced for iOS devices in 2020, allowing owners to use their iPhones as a digital key to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles.

BMW aims to provide even more convenience and accessibility to its customers, regardless of their mobile device preference.

Pixel and Samsung with BMW's Digital Key Integration

According to 9to5 Google, this is only compatible with BMW vehicles purchased from November 2022 or later, but older vehicles may receive support with a software update dropping soon.

BMW also said that only the Pixel 6 Pro and the Pixel 7 Pro will be compatible with this design, as well as the Samsung Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, and the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra.

Digital Keys via Smartphones

With the increasing reliance on smartphones as a central device for communication and access to various services, the integration of digital car keys provides a seamless and convenient experience for car owners.

The Digital Car Key Plus is compatible with select BMW models only, but this is a significant step towards a new experience that promises safety and security when accessing one's vehicle.

Google also expanded its Digital Car Key features for the Pixel smartphones, but it varies on the car manufacturer's compatibility or support for the tech. On the other hand, Samsung also launched its digital car key tech with compatible cars including BMW, Genesis, and Hyundai to start with.

BMW's expansion of the Digital Car Key Plus to Android smartphones represents a significant step forward in the integration of digital technology into the automotive industry. As digital car keys become more commonplace, other automakers will likely follow suit, further transforming access to cars.