Google Car Key – Google’s I/O Developers Conference revealed that Google would be partnering with BMW to introduce an Android Digital Car Key. The Digital Car Key will allow users to lock, unlock or start their BMW cars without having a dedicated key fob.
The Digital Car Key will work using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology embedded in Android phones. The brand revealed that only high-end Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones would have the Digital Car Key compatibility in the initial phase. The user will be able to unlock the vehicle using the digital car key just by approaching the car with the mobile phone in the pocket or by tapping the phone on the door handle.
The smartphone will store the security data, which can wirelessly communicate with the vehicle. This allows the user to lock, unlock and start the engine using the mobile phone. The operation will not require internet connectivity. The latest connected cars also have similar abilities using dedicated applications but require an internet connection for both vehicle and mobile device.
The new digital car feature will also allow users to share their virtual car key with another person. According to the brand, the car key can be shared “remotely and securely” with a family member or a friend, in the case when you need to lend your car. But currently, it is unknown which BMW car will come with the Digital Car Key feature. During the conference, the brand used the BMW i4; an all-electric sedan recently unveiled at Auto Shanghai 2021 in China.
The Google Andriod 12, the latest generation operating system, will make its debut later this year. The digital car key technology for more affordable vehicles appears quite a bit in the distance. Last year, BMW also partnered with Apple to introduce the Apple Digital Key. The technology is available on BMW cars manufactured after July 1st 2020. The brand had announced that the Digital Key from Apple would be available on BMW 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, X5, X6, X7, X5M, X6M and Z4. The Digital Key will also work with iPhone XR, iPhone XS or newer, and Apple Watch Series 5 or newer.