Apple's digital car key feature, part of the iPhone's Wallet app since iOS 14, allows compatible vehicles to be locked, unlocked and even started with a tap or simply by walking within range, without needing to unlock the phone first. Initially limited to the BMW 5 Series at launch in 2020, the feature has since expanded significantly, and understanding compatibility and setup is now useful for a much wider range of drivers considering the technology.

The feature requires at least an iPhone XS or newer, or a second-generation iPhone SE, running iOS 13 with NFC built in, and uses a mix of NFC, Bluetooth and, for passive "Express Mode" entry, the U1 ultra-wideband chip. It works via the Car Connectivity Consortium's Digital Key specification, storing a cryptographically secured digital key on the device. Car brands now listed by Apple as supporting the system include Audi, BMW, BYD, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Rivian and Volvo, among others, though Apple does not maintain an official compatibility list and advises checking directly with manufacturers. Setup methods vary by vehicle, sometimes requiring the phone to be tapped against a key reader or the owner to be physically near the car.