Google just announced a slew of new Android features, including the support for the digital car key and complementing it, is the expansion of BMW Digital Key for Android-based smartphones.
Currently limited to Google 6, 6 Pro and Samsung’s Galaxy S21 series (Galaxy S21/S21+/S21 Ultra), the devices can be used to unlock and lock compatible BMW vehicles. It is not as efficient as a keyless entry fob but all a user needs to have the BMW Digital Key activated and hold their smartphone next to the handle of the driver’s door. It can also be used to start the engine, which is possible once the phone is placed in the car’s wireless charging area.
The BMW Digital Key is configurable through the My BMW app but it seems early days for Android devices. Features like the ability to share the digital key with five friends and UWB-based BMW Digital Key Plus functionality are still missing. BMW has promised to add these features in the upcoming releases but there’s no ETA yet.
The digital key works in countries like France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Spain, United Kingdom, and the United States.
Umberto Santoriello says
I just took delivery of my bmwi4m50 today. I was dissapointed to find out that the tail gate hands free feature was not available and my samsung s21 ultra phone is not compatible to use as a keless entry device. When i placed tge order in January 2022 both fratures were included. Today 28/09/2022 all promises smashed. Very disappointed. Bmw what are you going to do to rectify the situation?