Electronic vehicle manufacturer Rivian will equip its R1T and R1S models with digital keys compatible with Apple and Android devices in an upcoming over-the-air (OTA) update.
Rivian, the American electric vehicle manufacturer, is set to join the ranks of automakers offering Apple's digital key feature in their Gen 2 models, which were introduced in June 2024. The R1S SUV and R1T pickup trucks will soon allow owners to lock, unlock, and control their vehicles using smartphones.
The digital key feature, first announced by Apple in 2020, will be compatible with both Apple and Android devices. This means Rivian owners will be able to share keys from their smartphones, ensuring convenience and flexibility. The keys can be stored in an Apple Wallet, but it's unclear whether the feature will also support Android wallets.
Rivian's Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, revealed the digital key feature, which functions like a physical key fob, allowing remote start and control of the vehicle. The digital key uses native wireless technology, ensuring security at the OS level on Apple, Google, and Samsung devices.
The digital key feature is already live on Apple's servers, but requires connection to Rivian's backend for full customer access. Other automakers such as Acura, Chevrolet, GMC, Lucid, Porsche, Kia, and several others are actively working to support Apple's digital keys. Rivian, however, is not mentioned in the provided text as being among the automakers that are actively working to support Apple's digital keys.
The digital key functionality will be delivered via an over-the-air update, but the provided text does not contain any information about the digital key feature being launched in an upcoming over-the-air update for Rivian's Gen 2 vehicles.
Rivian's Gen 2 vehicles offer hardware and software improvements compared to their previous models. They join Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Mercedes, Polestar, Volvo, and several other automakers that have integrated Apple Car Key. The integration of this feature positions Rivian as a forward-thinking automaker, embracing the latest technology to enhance the driving experience for its customers.
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