BMW Digital Key Plus Now Available on Compatible Android Devices
Digital Throttle
BMW Digital Key Plus is now also available for smartphones with Android operating systems. Previously compatible only with Apple devices, now customers with compatible devices from Samsung or Google can use them to unlock, lock, and start their BMWs without getting the phone out of their pockets.
Digital Key Plus can now be set up and activated on current Samsung Galaxy S23+ / Ultra and Google Pixel 7 Pro smartphones, and a number of older models with suitable hardware. The vehicle can be programmed to lock or unlock as the customer approaches or walks away with their device just as with a conventional vehicle key with comfort access functionality. The orchestrated welcome light display and light carpet also function as with the physical key, depending on the vehicle equipment.
High convenience and high security based on ultra-wideband.
A smartphone with Digital Key Plus completely replaces the vehicle key with extended functionality made possible using ultra-wideband technology (UWB). This is a digital radio technology for close range with high bandwidth, which features very precise localization with the maximum possible security. The precision of UWB also ensures that the risk of relay attacks, where the radio signal is jammed or intercepted, is virtually eliminated. BMW worked in collaboration with key partners to develop the corresponding specification and established it as a global standard for the automotive industry via the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC). The CCC is the global driving force for vehicle connectivity for all smart mobile devices.
The BMW Digital Key Plus can be set up using the My BMW App. The owner can also share it – and therefore access to the vehicle – with up to five other users who have smartphones with either Android or iOS.
Express Mode adds to the convenience of Digital Key Plus by allowing users to lock/unlock and start their vehicle without unlocking their phone, even up to five hours after the phone’s battery has completely drained.
Goal of identical functionality across all platforms.
Until now, Digital Key Plus has only been compatible with iPhone and Apple Watch. BMW has set the goal to offer digital vehicle access for all customers – irrespective of the operating system of the smartphone they use. The next important development stage on the way to this goal is now to be able to offer the full range of comfort access functions on Android devices.
As recently as December 2022, the BMW Group launched a further expansion stage for Digital Key based on collaboration with partners like Apple and Google, meaning secure, cross-platform sharing of Digital Key between iPhone and compatible Android devices via email, SMS, or any other messaging service. For more information, visit the company website.
