The automotive and mobile technology worlds continue their deep integration. The latest rumors, emerging from Apple's backend code, suggest an upcoming expansion of the Apple Car Key functionality. This innovative technology, which allows the use of an iPhone or Apple Watch as a digital key to unlock and start a vehicle, is preparing to welcome a new prestigious brand among its compatible partners Lexus.
An Announced Integration
The discovery of Lexus references in Apple's system code echoes what has happened in the past with other car manufacturers. This detection method anticipated the introduction of digital key support for models like the 2026 Toyota RAV4, which occurred in February. Although an official rollout date for Lexus has not yet been announced, Toyota's announcement regarding the new infotainment system for the 2026 Lexus ES, which will include advanced Digital Key functionality, strongly points towards a rapid implementation. You can learn more about related space missions in Artemis II mission updates.
Benefits of Apple Car Key
Lexus' current app-based Digital Key system requires a constant connection to Toyota's servers to function. Apple Car Key, on the other hand, stores the digital key directly in the Wallet app and uses NFC technology for unlocking. One of its most appreciated features is the Express Mode, which allows vehicle access even without authentication. Furthermore, it can continue to work for several hours even after the iPhone's battery has died. This ensures an unprecedented level of convenience and reliability for Apple users.
An Expanding Market
The adoption of Apple Car Key is not an isolated phenomenon. Support for this technology is rapidly spreading across the automotive sector. Numerous brands such as BMW, Genesis, Kia, Hyundai, Lotus, Mercedes, and Volvo have already integrated this functionality into their vehicles. The arrival of Lexus represents a further step towards making the car ownership experience increasingly connected and smartphone-based. The integration of Lexus with Apple Car Key could even anticipate future developments in connected and autonomous vehicles, a sector where Apple technology is showing growing interest, as also suggested by rumors about the possible upcoming foldable iPhone.
Compatibility with luxury brands like Lexus solidifies Apple's position in the digital automotive market, offering an increasingly comprehensive and secure alternative to traditional physical keys. The ability to use one's mobile device to manage vehicle access further simplifies drivers' daily lives, integrating mobility with their personal digital ecosystem. This development is part of a context of continuous innovation, where mobile technology plays an increasingly central role in every aspect of our lives, from photos taken with a smartphone during space missions, to everyday interactions. Even the digital sovereignty of nations is being discussed, with countries like France exploring alternatives to established systems.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2026/04/10/apple-car-key-support-coming-to-lexus
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