Rivian owners will soon be able to lock and unlock their cars with their smartphones. According to information shared by the company’s software boss, an upcoming over-the-air update will bring compatibility with Apple and Android key sharing.
Rivian’s Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, revealed that the much-anticipated digital key feature will utilize native wireless technology and ensure security at the OS level on Apple, Google, and Samsung devices. The keys can be stored in an Apple or Android wallet.
Rivian’s next generation digital key is launching in an upcoming OTA update!
It uses native wireless technology and OS-level security in your @Apple, @Google and @SamsungMobile devices to enable seamless access to your Gen 2 Rivian and key sharing from your Apple or Android… pic.twitter.com/7LKzrGLZKd
— Wassym Bensaid (@WassymBensaid) August 29, 2025
Bensaid added that digital keys will be available on Gen 2 Rivian vehicles. The automaker introduced the Gen 2 R1S SUV and R1T pickup in June 2024. The vehicles retained the Rivian exterior design but offered hardware and software improvements.
Apple’s Car Key feature, which allows iPhone owners to control their car through NFC radio, was announced in 2020. It functions like a physical key fob, allowing you to start the vehicle when nearby or remotely.
As reported by MacRumors, the feature is already live on Apple’s servers, but is awaiting connection to Rivian’s backend before customers can fully access it. This means Rivian will be joining a list of carmakers that have integrated Apple Car Key, including Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Mercedes, Polestar, and Volvo. Other automakers such as Acura, Chevrolet, GMC, Lucid, and Porsche are actively working to support Apple’s digital keys.
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