BMW digital key is an innovative feature that allows users to replace traditional keys with smartphones, but it only supported Apple devices before. Now, BMW has announced that it is bringing Digital Key Plus to the Android platform, with the first supported phones including Google’s Pixel series and Samsung’s Galaxy series.
BMW Digital Key Plus utilizes ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to allow users to automatically unlock or lock the doors when approaching the vehicle without having to take out their phone or press any buttons. This technology has gradually appeared on some mobile phones in the past few years. Digital Key Plus is set up and activated on compatible vehicles via the My BMW app, and also allows owners to share the digital key with friends or family, as long as they also have a compatible Android or iOS device.
Currently, you need a BMW built after November 2022 to use Digital Key Plus, though BMW says it will roll out a vehicle software update soon to allow older models to enjoy the feature, too. As for compatible phones, a complete list as follows:
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 6 Pro
Samsung
- Galaxy S23+
- Galaxy S23 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Fold 4
- Galaxy S22+
- Galaxy S22 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Fold 3
- Galaxy S21+
- Galaxy S21 Ultra
- Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
Users also need to be running the latest Android 13 system on their device and have Samsung Wallet installed on the Galaxy device.
