BMW Enables Digital Key Plus for Android Users

26th Apr 2023

The BMW Digital Key Plus is now available for smartphones with Android operating systems.

Customers with compatible devices from Samsung or Google can use it to unlock and lock their BMW and start the engine without even getting their phone out of their pocket.

Digital Key Plus has been available on Apple devices since 2021 and the system reacts automatically when approached or receded in the same way as a normal vehicle key.

A smartphone with Digital Key Plus completely replaces the vehicle key, with extended functionality made possible using ultra-wideband technology (UWB). This is a digital radio technology for close range with high bandwidth, which features very precise localisation with the maximum possible security.

The precision of UWB also ensures that the risk of relay attacks, where the radio signal is jammed or intercepted, is virtually eliminated.

BMW has worked with key partners like Google to develop the corresponding specification with partners and established it 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.

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