In February, it was discovered that code in Apple's iOS 13.4 beta version referred to an API called "Carkey." After Carkey's more extensive code was found in a second beta version of the same iOS, its functionality is to allow owners to lock, unlock and start their cars with an iPhone or Apple Watch. The vehicle will need to be equipped with near field communication (Nfc) protocol. The modern digital key is used the same way Tesla uses its ITS Mode 3 key card. Carkey is further developed in a beta version of iOS 14, which includes screenshots pointing to the possibility that BMW will be the first automaker to get this feature. This sounds reasonable since BMW was the first to launch wireless Apple CarPlay.
Carkey screenshots show several potential ways to implement and use this feature. After pairing the phone with the car's NFC transmitter via Apple Wallet, all permissions are identified through the wallet's user information. If the automatic process does not work, the backup pairing method uses a PIN. To unlock, the phone simply needs to be held close to the vehicle rather than removed from a pocket or bag. A prototype screenshot of iOS 14 shows three levels of permissions, either relay access or access and drive permissions. Carkey users can authenticate the app via Touch ID or FaceID before use or enable it to be used without authentication. Digital keys can be loaned to others permanently or temporarily, and shared via iMessage with individuals rather than groups. When a key is shared via iMessage***, the recipient receives a notification saying, "[Vehicle owner] invites you to use [vehicle model] with unlock and drive access. This allows you to use your iPhone and Apple Watch to Unlock/lock the car and start the engine.”
BMW issued a press release in December last year describing its work on digital keys for mobile phones and watches. Part of it is providing customers with simple, connected and ‘keyless’ vehicle access, which is a key area of ??innovation. Today it is already possible to lock and unlock the car, start the engine and share it with others using the BMW Digital Key as part of BMW Smartphone Connect. But this is just the first step in the global technological transformation that the BMW Group is shaping and leading. ”
The Apple iPhone 11 family already supports UWB, which has so far been used to add AirDrop functionality. The tech company applied for patent technology in 2018 to allow iPhones to manage vehicle functions, which was announced last November Another patent application designs a system that uses Bluetooth and Ultra Wideband to locate a device and then exchange digital keys. The question now is when Apple will launch the Carkey feature online, perhaps in June. Announced at the World Developers Conference.
This article is from the author of Autohome Chejiahao and does not represent the views and positions of Autohome