Digital keys are the next trend that most U.S. automakers want to jump on—and that Apple wants you to use. But as of now it is not a universal feature. Older cars may lack the hardware needed to implement this relatively newer technology. Even on the software side, you need a phone that supports at least Android 12 or higher. If your phone doesn’t have this feature and you need this feature, you should upgrade your phone the first chance you get. It goes without saying that ensuring the compatibility of both your phone and your car is the first thing you should do when setting up a digital car key.
Your car must also have an NFC (near-field communication) reader, as digital car keys use NFC technology. This is the same technology that contactless credit cards and Apple’s new digital ID also use. The NFC reader should be located near your vehicle’s wireless charging pad. With this reader your phone can be safely connected to the car.
Add your digital car key via your car’s app or via the configuration link
There are a few ways to add a digital car key to your Android phone, but they all end with saving the key to Google Wallet. The most common method is through your car manufacturer’s companion app. Once you install the app, log in, find the digital car key option and follow the on-screen instructions. During installation, you typically place your phone on the car’s NFC reader to complete pairing.
Some manufacturers can streamline the process by sending an email to their buyer. This email consists of a link usually labeled ‘Add to Android’; This means you can immediately follow the entire setup via the link. On the vehicles that offer the possibility of setting digital keys through the car’s main unit, carry out the process from the infotainment screen by logging in through your Google account, entering the activation code and finally pairing your phone by placing it on the reader.
Use, share and manage your digital key every day
Once your digital key is set up, it will start working like any physical key fob. You can also use it for the same purposes, such as locking and unlocking car doors, starting the engine, and even setting off the alarm if you see strange activity around your car. Some cars also offer passive access, meaning your car automatically unlocks the doors when you get close and locks itself when you leave.
Remote control commands are available on supported vehicles (like the 2026 Porsche Macan EV, which comes with plenty of digital goodies) via Google Wallet, as long as you’re within Bluetooth range. You can also add quick access tiles on your phone to lock, unlock or open the trunk. Even if your phone battery dies, you may still be able to unlock and start your car for a few hours as long as the key doesn’t require phone unlock authentication. Digital keys can also be shared; Android users can send keys to other Android or iPhone users, depending on what the car supports.
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