Volkswagen is preparing to add Apple Wallet car key support to future vehicles, according to references found in new Apple server-side code.
The code suggests that Volkswagen is working on adopting Apple’s digital car key feature, though it does not reveal which vehicle models will support it or when the feature will become available.
How Apple Wallet car keys work
Apple Wallet car keys allow users to store a digital version of their vehicle key on an iPhone or Apple Watch. Once set up, the feature can be used to lock, unlock, and start a compatible vehicle without using a physical key.
Depending on the vehicle and supported technology, users can access their car by holding their device near the door handle or by keeping their iPhone or Apple Watch nearby.
Apple Wallet car keys can also be shared with other users, making it possible to provide temporary or permanent access without handing over a physical key.
The discovery indicates that Volkswagen could soon join the list of automakers that allow drivers to replace a traditional car key with their iPhone or Apple Watch.
More automakers continue adding support
Volkswagen has not officially announced Apple Wallet car key integration yet, so details such as supported models, regions, and launch timing remain unknown.
If the feature rolls out, Volkswagen will join several automakers that already support Apple’s car key system, including Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and others.
Apple Wallet car keys are already available from several automakers, including Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and others. Volkswagen would be another major addition to the list once support becomes available.
More details should become available once Volkswagen or Apple officially confirms the feature rollout.
Would you replace your physical car key with your iPhone or Apple Watch? Let us know in the comments below.
