Digital car key support coming soon to iOS 13; iOS 14 CarPlay introduces support for wallpapers and new apps

CarPlay is getting plenty of attention at this year’s WWDC, including support for digital car keys.

The big announcement is digital car keys. It uses NFC to unlock the vehicle, and supports starting the vehicle. The new digital keys work within the secure element in the iPhone, so they are more secure by default. Users can turn the car keys off when they want. There are new profile options, which can let individuals who get a key shared with them to use the car in full, or in parts.

Digital car keys will be available starting in July. And the digital car keys will work in iOS 13 as well.

Apple says it is working on technology to use the U1 ultra Wideband chip. It will work in the pocket, your bag, and more. It means you don’t have to have your physical key on you at all times, but doesn’t necessarily mean you should always leave it behind. Broad support will be available in early 2021.

The first vehicle to support this new feature out of the box is the 2021 BMW M5 series.

The new CarPlay in iOS 14 will also support individual wallpapers, and it will support a range of new apps, including parking apps.