Waiting for that perfect blend of tech and convenience? Rivian R1T and R1S owners, your wait is over! Apple Wallet digital car keys are here, letting your iPhone or Apple Watch unlock your EV with ease. But while this brings seamless access, what other Apple integrations do you wish Rivian would adopt?
The long-anticipated integration of Apple Wallet digital car key functionality has finally arrived for Rivian R1T and R1S electric vehicle owners, marking a significant stride in enhancing convenience and the overall user experience.
This innovative feature, initially hinted at during the launch of Rivian’s second-generation vehicles, allows owners to seamlessly unlock and even start their EVs using their iPhone or Apple Watch. The core mechanism relies on holding the Apple device near the vehicle’s NFC reader, replacing the need for traditional keys or even Rivian’s own proprietary app for basic access.
Beyond simple unlocking, the new Apple Wallet car key support boasts advanced functionalities that elevate its utility. For instance, devices equipped with Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology enable passive entry, allowing owners to keep their phone securely in a pocket or purse while gaining access. Furthermore, Express Mode ensures the digital key remains operational for several hours, even after the iPhone’s battery has completely depleted, a critical aspect of reliable smart car access.
Another significant advantage is the ability for effortless key sharing. Rivian drivers can now easily grant temporary or permanent access to family members or friends directly through their Apple Wallet, streamlining permissions and making vehicle sharing more intuitive than ever before. This significantly improves upon previous digital key systems by leveraging Apple’s robust ecosystem.
This move underscores Rivian’s commitment to automotive innovation and integrating with leading technology platforms where it makes strategic sense. The seamless interaction between Rivian vehicles and the Apple ecosystem promises a more cohesive and sophisticated experience for iPhone and Apple Watch users, aligning with modern consumer expectations for connected car features.
However, amidst this positive development, Rivian maintains its firm stance against adopting Apple CarPlay. CEO RJ Scaringe has consistently articulated the company’s vision to retain full control over the in-vehicle software experience, preferring to cultivate a unique Rivian interface rather than ceding it to third-party platforms.
Despite the resistance to CarPlay, Rivian has demonstrated a selective willingness to embrace other Apple features. Notably, the automaker already offers Apple Music with Spatial Audio, a premium in-car entertainment option that enhances audio immersion and highlights a targeted approach to integrating best-in-class technologies.
Ultimately, the rollout of Apple Wallet car key support for R1T R1S features represents a substantial leap forward for Rivian, delivering on a highly requested feature that blends cutting-edge EV technology with everyday convenience. This empowers owners with greater flexibility and a more integrated digital lifestyle, minimizing dependence on a single proprietary application.
