Electric vehicle giant Tesla is gearing up to expand its digital car key feature to Apple Watch users, according to recent findings in the company's app code. This move could allow Tesla owners to unlock and start their vehicles using their Apple smartwatches.
Currently, Tesla's digital car key function is available for iPhone users with models XS and newer, compatible with most Tesla electric vehicles. The potential addition of Apple Watch support would broaden the accessibility of this convenient feature.
Code strings discovered in the latest Tesla app update hint at the development of a dedicated Apple Watch app. These code snippets, including "watch_app_pairing_state_remotely_signing_add_key_command" and "watch_app_ble_peripheral," suggest the use of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and ultra-wideband (UWB) technologies for the digital key functionality.
While the exact release date for the Tesla Apple Watch app remains unknown, speculation suggests it may be compatible with newer watch models running watchOS 11, such as the Watch SE (2nd generation), Watch Series 10, and Watch Ultra 2.
The setup process for the Apple Watch digital key is expected to mirror the current iPhone procedure. Users will likely generate a digital key through the Tesla app, which can then be added to the Apple Wallet on their smartwatch.
This development aligns with Tesla CEO Elon Musk's earlier hints about a dedicated Apple Watch app, shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) in March.
Although third-party apps already offer some Tesla control features for Apple Watch users, an official Tesla app could potentially provide enhanced security, a wider range of controls, and additional tools for Tesla owners.
As Tesla continues to innovate in both automotive and tech spheres, this move represents another step towards seamless integration between electric vehicles and wearable technology.