BMW is expanding the range of functions of the Digital Key with a cross-platform sharing function, so that the digital car keys can now also be shared between iOS and Android devices. Sharing between Apple's iPhone and current Google Pixel models is the first step, Samsung is to follow later.
Function sets RSU 22-11 ahead
The Digital Key (test) or the variant Digital Key Plus (test) supplemented by UWB was previously limited to the respective platform of the user, so that a key set up under iOS could only be shared with other iOS devices via iMessage, while in the Android Universe only sharing to other Android devices was possible. This hurdle falls with the latest release that accompanies the Remote Software Upgrade (RSU) 22-11. As BMW describes, the extended functionality is initially available for all new vehicles with BMW Digital Key or BMW Digital Key Plus, while older vehicles with this equipment must first install the corresponding RSU, which can be done over-the-air via LTE or 5G and via the smartphone with the My BMW app and the subsequent transfer to the vehicle.
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If these requirements are met, the digital keys from the wallet of the respective operating system can be shared with other platforms. Because all providers adhere to the standards established in the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), sharing is possible in a variety of ways, including messengers such as WhatsApp and similar, but also e-mail and SMS. The recipient of the key does not have to have a BMW app or BMW ID, but receives the key directly via a link for storage in the wallet. In certain cases, however, for security reasons it is necessary to enter an activation code in the vehicle, which the sender ideally communicates to the recipient via another channel, explains BMW. Within the respective ecosystem, sharing also works via Apple AirDrop and Android Nearby Share.
A shared key cannot be shared again by the recipient to other people who receive the recipient but permission to share to a companion device such as a smartwatch. After receiving a digital key on the iPhone, the recipient can transfer it to their own Apple Watch, for example.
First for Apple and Pixel, later for Samsung
Make the start of the advanced sharing feature iPhone models from iOS 16.1 and the Google Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro from Android 13. According to BMW, other smartphones from Samsung will follow “soon”. Along with Google, Samsung is one of the few providers to install a UWB chip for the Digital Key Plus in their smartphones. The Digital Key Plus for Android has only been available for a short time anyway.
In contrast to the regular Digital Key, the Digital Key Plus has the advantage that the smartphone no longer needs to be held to the door handle must be held, but unlocking and locking within the UWB zone can also be carried out remotely, including a welcome scenario. In addition, the engine can be started with a smartphone in your pocket without having to put it in the charging cradle first.