Apple Car Keys support has come to the first Android device, Google Pixel running on Android 12. 9to5Mac reports that in partnership with IETF and industry members, Apple has been working to standardize cross-platform digital car key sharing and Google Pixel is the first non-iOS device to receive Car Keys support.
Apple introduced Car Keys at WWDC 2020, a digital copy of their car keys stored in the Wallet app on iPhone and Apple Watch. Digital car keys are powered by NFC tech which allows users to lock, unlock and start their cars easily via iPhone and Apple Watch and removes the need to carry the physical key fob. Digital keys can also be shared with family or friends through messaging apps like Messages, Mail, WhatsApp, and AirDrop and managed via iCloud.
iOS 16.1 allows users to send car keys in the Wallet app to Google Pixel
Previously, iOS users could share their digital car keys with only iOS users. iOS 16.1 allows iOS users to share Car Keys in the Wallet app with Android users by generating a key that work on Android.
You can share car keys by using the Share button inside the Wallet app. You could previously send the key to other iPhone users. On iOS 16.1 or later, the Wallet app generates keys that also work with other supporting platforms, most notably Android users.
According to the report, Google is working on expanding Apple Car Keys support on all Android 12 devices in addition to Google Pixel.
However, only a select number of (2021- 2022) automobiles support Apple Car Keys currently from BMW, Genesis, and Kia. And it is expected that Hyundai and Tesla will release support soon.
Digital car key in the Wallet app is available on iPhone XS or newer on the latest iOS version and Apple Watch Series 5 or newer on the latest watchOS version. It must be kept in mind that users need to be the owner of the account provided by the automobile manufacturer and have to make sure that the compatible car is connected to the account.
