We have been hearing rumors about the new Apple CarKey feature for some time and now it looks like it could be launching some time soon.
Apple recently released their 13.5.1 software update for the iPhone and now more references to the Apple CarKey have been discovered in the OS.
The privacy policy for the service has been discovered in iOS 13.5.1 and it is also in the most recent iOS 13.6 beta software.
How Apple CarKey Works
Apple’s new CarKey feature will allow you to use your iPhone to lock and unlock your car and also start it on supported vehicles. This is achieved through the use of Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which enables your iPhone to communicate with your car when in close proximity. The process is designed to be seamless and secure, ensuring that only authorized users can access the vehicle.
One of the standout features of Apple CarKey is the ability to share your digital car key with others. You can send a digital version of the key to someone else via Apple Messages, and they can then use this to lock, unlock, and start the car. This could be particularly useful in scenarios where you need to lend your car to a friend or family member without having to hand over a physical key.
Supported Vehicles and Manufacturers
This feature will work with NFC-enabled vehicles, but it is not yet clear how many manufacturers will support it at launch. One manufacturer we know about that will support it is BMW, as references to them have been found in iOS. BMW has a history of integrating advanced technology into their vehicles, so it is not surprising that they are among the first to adopt this new feature.
Other manufacturers are likely to follow suit, especially as the demand for digital and connected car technologies continues to grow. The automotive industry is increasingly moving towards smart and autonomous vehicles, and features like Apple CarKey are a step in that direction. It is expected that more car manufacturers will announce support for Apple CarKey in the near future.
Security and Privacy Considerations
Security is a major concern when it comes to digital keys, and Apple has taken steps to ensure that CarKey is secure. The digital keys are stored in the Secure Element of your iPhone, which is the same hardware component that stores Apple Pay information. This means that your digital car key is protected by the same level of security as your financial information.
Additionally, the privacy policy for the service has been discovered in iOS 13.5.1 and is also present in the most recent iOS 13.6 beta software. This indicates that Apple is committed to ensuring that users’ privacy is protected when using CarKey. The policy outlines how data is collected, used, and shared, providing transparency and peace of mind for users.
Future Implications and Potential Uses
The introduction of Apple CarKey could have significant implications for the future of car ownership and usage. For example, car rental companies could use this technology to streamline the rental process, allowing customers to pick up and drop off vehicles without the need for physical keys. Car-sharing services could also benefit from this technology, making it easier for users to access shared vehicles.
Moreover, the ability to share digital keys could lead to new business models and services. For instance, valet services could use temporary digital keys to access and park cars, or delivery services could use them to place packages directly into the trunk of your car.
In conclusion, Apple CarKey represents a significant step forward in the integration of digital technology with the automotive industry. As more manufacturers adopt this feature and as its potential uses expand, it is likely to become an increasingly important part of the driving experience.
Source MacRumors
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