The BMW Digital Key Plus is now available on Android smartphones, allowing customers with compatible devices from Samsung or Google to unlock, lock, and start their BMW vehicles without taking their phone out of their pocket. This technology was previously only available on Apple devices since 2021, but now Android users can enjoy the same level of convenience and security.

The Digital Key Plus replaces the physical vehicle key with extended functionality using ultra-wideband technology (UWB). UWB is a digital radio technology for close-range communication with high bandwidth, providing precise localization and maximum security. This precision also eliminates the risk of relay attacks, where the radio signal is jammed or intercepted.

To ensure identical functionality across all platforms, the BMW Group worked with key partners such as Google to develop the corresponding specification, which was established as a global standard for the automotive industry via the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC). The CCC is the global driving force for vehicle connectivity for all smart mobile devices.

The next important development stage for the BMW Group is to offer the full range of comfort access functions on Android devices. Digital Key Plus was previously only compatible with iPhone and Apple Watch, but the company is determined to provide digital vehicle access for all customers, regardless of the operating system of the smartphone they use.

In December 2022, the BMW Group launched a further expansion stage for Digital Key in collaboration with partners such as Apple and Google, enabling secure, cross-platform sharing of Digital Key between iPhone and compatible Android devices via email, SMS, or any other messaging service.

Android compatibility is available in Digital Key Plus-capable vehicles produced from November 2022, and a future remote software upgrade will expand the capability to Digital Key Plus-capable vehicles produced before November 2022.

For Samsung devices running Android 13.1 or later, compatible models include Galaxy S23+, S23 Ultra, S22+, S22 Ultra, S21+, S21 Ultra, Z Fold4, Z Fold3, Note20 Ultra (in markets with Samsung Wallet: Bahrain, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Qatar). For Google devices running Android 13.1 or later, the Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 6 Pro are compatible.

In conclusion, the BMW Digital Key Plus is a highly convenient and secure technology that allows BMW owners to use their smartphones as their vehicle key. With the recent expansion to Android devices, BMW is working towards offering the full range of comfort access functions on all platforms. The use of ultra-wideband technology provides maximum security and precise localization, making the Digital Key Plus a reliable and convenient option for BMW owners.