Apple تتوسع في استخدام المفاتيح الرقمية بخدمات تأجير السيارات

Apple Expands Digital Keys for Car Rental Services

Digital locks and keys are still in their early stages, but they are rapidly growing in popularity. Major hotel chains and car brands are now offering the ability to unlock cars remotely using your phone, smartwatch, or wearable device.

Apple's Digital Keys for Car Rental

Apple is now working to expand the use of its "digital key" technology to include car rental fleets. In an interview with Wallet app head Jennifer Bailey, Apple confirmed that it is collaborating with major car rental companies to provide a digital key experience that verifies your identity electronically, eliminating the need for physical keys.

While widespread adoption of this technology might take time, as with other Apple services such as Apple Pay, the increasing use of digital locks could accelerate its spread.

Compatible Car Brands and Limitations

Apple's "digital key" feature currently supports a limited number of brands, including BMW, Mercedes, certain Hyundai and Kia models, BYD (China's second-largest electric vehicle manufacturer),and niche brands like Lotus and Rivian.

However, the use of these keys is still limited because cars require NFC or UWB communication technologies, which are not available on all models even from brands that support Apple's digital keys.

Benefits and Future Potential

Apple's digital key project offers more than just remote unlocking; it allows you to start the car from inside, automatically lock it when you walk away, and remotely control its locking, unlocking, and starting. As more compatible cars hit the market, including those in rental fleets, the adoption of this technology is likely to increase.