Everything to know before putting your car key on an Android phone
Google has introduced digital car keys for Android smartphones, allowing users to unlock and start their vehicles using Google Wallet. This feature, which relies on Bluetooth and Ultra-wideband technology, enhances security compared to traditional key fobs. Users can add their car keys through various methods depending on the vehicle manufacturer, provided they have a compatible Android device running Android 12 or later.
- ▪Android's digital car key feature was introduced with Android 12 in 2021.
- ▪Digital car keys can be shared with other phones via text message, including iOS devices.
- ▪The feature connects to vehicles using Bluetooth and Ultra-wideband technology for enhanced security.
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News EVs and Transportation Everything to know before putting your car key on an Android phone Google's approach to digital car keys is designed to be secure and shareable. By Ian Carlos Campbell May 29, 2026 9:30 am EST Google Smartphones are a common replacement for credit and debit cards thanks to features like Google Pay and Apple Pay. As more car makers update their tech, your smartphone might just be a replacement for your keys, too. Android's support for digital car keys means that if your phone and car are compatible, you can use Google Wallet to unlock your vehicle, and, in some cases, even start it remotely. Knowing how the feature works and which smartphones support it will not only make the feature easier to set up, but it could keep you and your car safer in the long run.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Engadget.
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