In the past, the German automaker was the first to integrate an iPod in their vehicles as well as offer wireless CarPlay and now the first to introduce support for BMW Digital Key stored securely in Apple Wallet for iPhone.
The "car key" for the iPhone will enable customers to just tap to unlock and easily get going by placing the iPhone in the smartphone tray and pushing the start button.
Setup of the Digital Key can be done through the BMW Smartphone App and car owners can also share access with up to five friends including a configurable car access option for young drivers which restricts top speed, horsepower and maximum radio volume among others.
Management of access can also be done from inside the car as well as through Apple Wallet.
Additional features of the new Digital Key include:
- Storage in the Secure Element of your iPhone and access through Apple Wallet.
- Power reserve for iPhone where car keys will still function for up to five hours if the iPhone turns off due to low battery.
- Ability to share access with up to five friends via iMessage.
- Apple Watch compatibility.
For a while now, Apple and BMW have been working closely with the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) to press ahead with the establishment of global standards.
The Digital Key specification 2.0 for NFC was released in May while the next generation Digital Key using Ultra-Wideband technology is currently underway.
BMW's Digital Key for iPhone is being made available for vehicles manufactured from July 1 onwards and includes the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 Series as well as the X5, X6, X7, X5M, X6M and Z4.
The iPhone models that are compatible include the iPhone XR, XS or newer and the Apple Watch Series 5 or newer.
To delve a little bit deeper, log on to www.bmw.com/digitalkey.
Also announced was smart routes for BMW electric vehicles in Apple Maps during the conference where the two companies announced a new feature that will make it easier for CarPlay users to take BMW electric vehicles on longer journeys by automatically taking into account when and where to charge.
Drivers can plan their trip in advance on their iPhone or simply enter their destination through Apple CarPlay when they get into the car.
Regardless, Apple Maps will pick the optimal route based on electric range and the locations of charging stations along the way.
The seamless, simple feature will first be available for BMW in the fully electric BMW i4 which has been earmarked for launch sometime next year.
