BMW has expanded the availability of its Digital Key Plus to include Android smartphones, making it easier for customers with compatible Samsung and Google devices to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without needing a physical key or even taking their phones out of their pockets.
The ultra-wideband (UWB) technology in Digital Key Plus enables seamless locking and unlocking as users approach or leave their vehicle, offering the same level of convenience as a traditional key with comfort access functionality. Depending on the vehicle's features, it also activates the orchestrated welcome light display and light carpet. Previously exclusive to Apple devices, Digital Key Plus now supports current Samsung Galaxy S23+ / Ultra and Google Pixel 7 Pro smartphones and several older models with compatible hardware.
UWB is a high-bandwidth, short-range digital radio technology that provides highly accurate localization and optimal security. Its precision minimizes the risk of relay attacks, where radio signals are intercepted or jammed. BMW collaborated with key partners to develop the UWB specification, establishing it as a global standard for the automotive industry through the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC). The CCC drives vehicle connectivity for all smart mobile devices globally.
Users can set up and activate the BMW Digital Key Plus via the My BMW App and share it with up to five other users on Android or iOS devices. Express Mode adds convenience by allowing drivers to lock, unlock, and start their cars without unlocking their phones, even up to five hours after the battery has completely drained.
BMW aims to offer digital vehicle access to all customers, regardless of their smartphone's operating system. By extending compatibility to Android devices, BMW has reached a significant milestone in achieving this goal. In December 2022, the company introduced cross-platform sharing of Digital Key between iPhone and compatible Android devices via email, SMS, or other messaging services, in collaboration with partners like Apple and Google.
Android compatibility is available for Digital Key Plus-capable vehicles produced from November 2022 onwards. A future remote software upgrade will extend this capability to vehicles manufactured before November 2022.
Compatible Samsung devices (running Android 13.1 or later) include Galaxy S23+, S23 Ultra, S22+, S22 Ultra, S21+, S21 Ultra, Z Fold4, Z Fold3, and Note20 Ultra (in markets with Samsung Wallet). Compatible Google devices (running Android 13.1 or later) are Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 6 Pro.
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