BMW’s Digital Key feature is now being rolled out to users with the latest Android smartphones, allowing owners to unlock their cars using just the device.
The German firm launched the technology earlier this year on models running the brand’s latest operating system, but it was only available to those with a current iPhone. Now, though, those with an Android phone will also be able to benefit.
BMW says anyone with a Samsung Galaxy S21 Series phone or a Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro can now use their device as this ‘Digital Key’.
The feature works with the same near-field communication technology that’s used in contactless credit cards, and means customers can easily unlock and lock their BMW by holding their phone next to the driver’s door handle, while the engine can even be started when the device is placed in the wireless smartphone charging tray.
The ‘key’ is said to be securely stored in the phone and can also be configured using the My BMW app. In the future, it will be possible to share the ‘key’ with five others, which will be especially useful if multiple people drive the same car.
BMW says the Digital Key is available as an optional extra on almost all of its models, too, including the electric iX3 and iX SUVs and i4 saloon.
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