Volvo is expanding its support for Apple’s Car Key platform. The automaker is now rolling out a software update to the Volvo EX30 with support for Car Key. This allows drivers to store a key in the Apple Wallet app on their phone and use it to start, lock, and unlock their car.
The Volvo EX30 launched in Europe last year and officially came to the United States last month. It was the third top-selling EV in Europe last year, behind Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3. The Volvo EX30 exists as a smaller counterpart to the Volvo EX90.
As pointed out by Volvo EX30 drivers on Reddit, software version 1.5.2 started rolling out this month with support for Apple’s Car Key platform. Here are the details from the Volvo release notes
You can lock, unlock and start the car by using your phone as a digital key. The digital key is stored in your phone’s wallet app. To start your car using the digital key, bring it with you inside the car or place it on the card reader. Digital Key is currently only available for Apple devices.
A digital key lets you use your phone as a key card to unlock, lock and start the car.
To pair the car with your phone, open the mobile app for your car and start the guide. If the pairing is successful, your digital key appears in your phone’s wallet app.
The Volvo EX90, meanwhile, has supported Apple’s Car Key integration since it launched last year. Adoption of Car Key has been slow since it was first announced at WWDC in 2020. In addition to these two Volvo models, it’s also supported by automakers, including Rivian, Kia, BMW, and more. It also expanded to the Audi A6 Avant E-Tron this week and is likely coming to Porsche EVs soon.
Apple has a full list of vehicles that support Car Key on its website, though it hasn’t been updated with the latest launches from Volvo and Audi.
Do you have any experience with Apple’s Car Key platform? Let us know in the comments.
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