Samsung Phones Function as Digital Car Keys

Samsung Enables Use of Smartphones as Digital Car Keys

Samsung has announced a new feature that allows users of its smartphones to use their devices as digital keys for several modern car models, including those from Audi, Volvo, and Polestar. This functionality is available through the Samsung Wallet app, according to a report by the German Press Agency.

Benefits of the Digital Key

With this feature, Samsung smartphone users can store a digital car key in the app, providing easy access to the car even if the physical key is forgotten at home. Users don’t need to have the phone in hand to use it; they can share the digital key wirelessly with friends and family. Additionally, the car owner can disable the digital key at any time.

Supported Models

Initially, this functionality was available for Audi car owners of the “A6 e-tron,” “Q6 e-tron,” and “A5” series. It is now also available for the Volvo EX90 and Polestar 3 models. Samsung plans to expand the list of supported car models to include additional brands in the near future.

How It Works

To use this feature, the car owner needs a digital key from Samsung, which is used via the Samsung Wallet app. This requires a phone from the Galaxy S20 series, Z Flip2, Z Fold2, or later models.

Digital Key Security

Samsung confirmed that the Samsung Wallet app is equipped with Knox security, a technology designed to protect user data from theft. The app also meets strict security standards, including the “+EAL6” criteria. In the event the digital key is lost, it can be easily disabled via Samsung’s “Find My Mobile” service.

Available Technologies

The digital key is transmitted using standard car communication protocols (Car Connectivity Consortium) with the use of Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology to ensure stable and secure wireless communication.

Future Expansion

Samsung plans to expand this feature to include more supported models from Volvo and Polestar, with more car manufacturers expected to be added in the near future.

Sources:

• German Press Agency.
• Reports from Samsung.