Key findings
- Digital car keys can be synced with your car and phone like NFC credit cards for easier access.
- The use of digital keys is increasing and more brands are expected to support this technology by the end of 2025.
- Some car brands allow you to add your digital key to Google Wallet for added convenience, but support may be limited.
Cars are more connected than ever. Regardless of the choice of drive – EV ICE or PHEV To name just a few, most new vehicles come with an app and, very new, a digital car key.
What is a digital car key? Think of it like an NFC credit card that can be synced with your car and your phone so you can unlock your car and drive away. Some car manufacturers even let you add your NFC key to Google Wallet.
Digital keys are at the cutting edge of car technology, so support is a bit sparse right now, but adoption will grow. By the end of 2025, most car manufacturers could support digital keys. One of the first to come to market was BMW .
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Sync your key with your car
Let’s jump through some hoops
Hopefully this process will be simplified in the future. First, let’s assume you already have your car’s companion app installed on your phone. For this guide, I’ll focus on Android. If you’re using iOS, check out our Apple Car Key guide. You can find your digital key in your vehicle’s manual. Alternatively, your dealer may have given it to you before you drove off the lot in your new car.
There is an NFC reader in the car. Usually this is located on the wireless charging station, which can read the digital NFC key.
- Place your digital key on the reader.
- You will be prompted to add a digital key to your car. During the syncing process, you will be prompted to sync your digital key with your car’s companion app. Tap or slide a switch to To or tap Yes.
- Now, to open your car, you need to open the app and touch your phone to the car handle. Some cars allow you to open the doors by simply walking closer.
Some car apps require you to authenticate with biometrics or a passcode. This way, the software can make sure you are opening the car.
Add your digital key to Google Wallet
More options
If your car supports digital keys, you may also be able to add them to Google Wallet. Look for the Add to Google Wallet option in your car’s mobile app and you should be good to go.
Alternatively, you can tap your digital key while you have Google Wallet open. However, this process is currently limited. To add your digital key to Google Wallet, follow these three simple steps:
- Open the Google Wallet app.
- Tap below Add to Wallet.
- Tap your phone with your digital key.
- Tap below Save and continue.
This is a much simpler process, but you may not be able to do it right now. Contact your dealer for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which cars have digital key access?
Most manufacturers that sell in the US intend to add it. Check out an article on Pocket-lint for a list of brands that include it.
Q: Are Apple phones supported, not just Android?
Yes, the two major handheld operating systems, Android and iOS, can both use Digital Key. There may be some operating system and hardware dependencies.
Q: Will the digital key card still work if I can open my car with my phone?
Yes, the physical digital key still works.
