BMW has made it possible for customers to access their cars via Apple’s Smart Key tech, which replaces a conventional key with an app on a user’s iPhone or iWatch. While the tech itself isn’t new – roadside car sharing firms are already established users – BMW is the first manufacturer to introduce the system, which uses Apple’s built-in security to ensure only the user or up to five approved Apple others can access the car.
It’s remarkably simple in operation, requiring users only to download the app which is then stored in their phone’s wallet, and then tap their phone close to the car’s door much like contact card payment to unlock it. Once inside it's simply a question of placing the phone in its existing wireless charging holder, which then allows the car to be started and driven away – so long as the main user has granted access to the car’s full suite of functions.
If they wish, the main user can restrict specific members of their five interchangeable Smart Key ‘family’, limiting, for example, engine power and maximum radio volume – which you might imagine to be quite handy for those with teenagers. And while some may be concerned about the security of a system that relies on a digital connection, BMW assures us that Apple’s security is top notch. Certainly, BMW wouldn’t want to take any risks.
Those who live their lives between mobile phone charging points may be relieved to learn that a flat phone or watch battery won’t immediately prevent access to a car. BMW said that you’ve up to five hours to gain access, which should provide enough time to find yourself another port. Or at least get someone with a working phone to save you. Those that can use the tech need to have one of Apple’s latest devices, including an iPhone XR, iPhone XS or newer and Apple Watch Series 5 or newer.
With Apple’s latest key tech launched in May, BMW is ready to turn on its system from 1st July. It will at first work on BMW models of 1 to 8, X models from the X5 to X7 and the Z4 roadster.
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