Rivian to Offer iPhone Car Keys in Apple Wallet Later This Month
Rivian confirmed that its second‑generation R1S SUV and R1T pickup will soon offer full Apple Wallet car key functionality. A software patch labeled 2025.46, slated for release later this month, will allow owners to unlock, lock, and start their Rivian EVs using an iPhone or Apple Watch, bypassing the traditional Rivian mobile app.
Apple Wallet Car Key: A Brief Technical History
Apple introduced Car Key support in iOS 13, enabling compatible vehicles to store a digital key in the Apple Wallet app. The system uses NFC (Near‑Field Communication) for proximity‑based access and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for remote operations. Over the past two years, manufacturers such as BMW, Hyundai, and Ford have integrated the technology, creating a growing ecosystem of iPhone car keys that work across iOS devices and Apple Watches.
Rivian’s Second‑Generation Platform and Existing Key Ecosystem
Rivian’s second‑generation R1S and R1T models, launched in early 2025, feature a refreshed infotainment suite, over‑the‑air (OTA) update capability, and a proprietary key fob. Currently, owners rely on the Rivian app for remote functions such as door lock, climate control, and vehicle start‑stop. While the app provides robust control, the iPhone car keys integration will bring a more seamless, wallet‑centric experience that aligns with Apple’s broader digital‑key strategy.
The 2025.46 Software Update: What Rivian Has Revealed
Wassym Bensaid, Rivian’s chief software officer, announced that the 2025.46 OTA update will embed the Apple Wallet Car Key API into the vehicle’s firmware. Key technical points include:
- NFC pairing: Users will tap their iPhone on the B‑pillar sensor to add the vehicle to Apple Wallet.
- BLE remote commands: Once paired, the iPhone or Apple Watch can send lock, unlock, and start commands from up to 30 feet.
- Secure element: The vehicle’s hardware security module stores encrypted key data, meeting Apple’s Secure Enclave standards.
- No dedicated date: Rivian has not disclosed an exact rollout day, only that the update will be delivered "later this month."
User Experience: How the iPhone Car Keys Feature Works
When the update is installed, the iPhone will display a new Car Key card inside the Apple Wallet app. The card shows the vehicle’s name, battery level, and status indicators (locked/unlocked). Users can:
- Tap to unlock the doors by holding the iPhone near the vehicle’s NFC antenna.
- Press and hold the side button on the iPhone or Apple Watch to remotely unlock or lock the vehicle.
- Double‑click the side button to start the motor while seated, provided the driver’s seat is equipped with a seat‑belt sensor.
The experience mirrors that of traditional Apple Wallet payments, delivering a familiar and frictionless interaction.
Practical Implementation – Step‑by‑Step Setup Guide
Below is a concise how‑to for owners ready to adopt the new iPhone car keys:
- Prepare the vehicle – Ensure the second‑generation R1S or R1T is running the latest firmware (version 2025.45 or later). Check via the vehicle’s settings menu.
- Update iOS – Verify that the iPhone or Apple Watch is on iOS 17.5 or watchOS 10.5, which include the latest Car Key enhancements.
- Open Apple Wallet – Tap the + button, select Add Car Key, and follow the on‑screen prompts.
- NFC pairing – Hold the iPhone near the vehicle’s B‑pillar sensor until the pairing animation completes.
- Confirm via Rivian app – The Rivian app will display a confirmation message; accept to finalize the link.
- Test the key – Use the iPhone or Apple Watch to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle from a short distance.
Owners should keep the Rivian app installed for backup access and to manage additional drivers.
Key Takeaways
- Rivian will offer native iPhone car keys via Apple Wallet later this month, expanding digital key compatibility.
- The feature works on second‑generation R1S and R1T models through the 2025.46 OTA update.
- Users gain NFC and BLE remote capabilities without relying on the Rivian app for everyday access.
- Security is maintained through vehicle‑level hardware encryption and Apple’s Secure Enclave.
- The integration positions Rivian alongside legacy automakers already supporting Apple’s Car Key ecosystem.
Competitive Implications for Rivian and the EV Market
By aligning with Apple’s Car Key platform, Rivian addresses a growing consumer expectation for seamless smartphone‑first vehicle access. Competitors such as Tesla continue to rely on proprietary smartphone keys, while Ford and Hyundai already support Apple Wallet. The move may:
- Attract iOS‑centric buyers who prioritize ecosystem integration.
- Accelerate OTA adoption across the EV sector, as more manufacturers see the value of software‑driven convenience features.
- Strengthen dealer appeal, giving sales staff a new selling point tied to Apple’s brand equity.
Security and Privacy Considerations
Digital car keys raise legitimate concerns about hacking and unauthorized access. Apple’s Car Key framework mitigates risk through:
- End‑to‑end encryption of key data during transmission.
- Dynamic authentication tokens that change after each use, preventing replay attacks.
- Biometric verification (Face ID or Touch ID) before the key can be transmitted.
Rivian’s vehicle security module stores keys in a tamper‑resistant enclave, ensuring that even a compromised iPhone cannot expose raw key material.
Future Outlook – Beyond the iPhone
The rollout hints at broader ambitions. Potential future developments include:
- Multi‑device support – Adding Android Auto’s Digital Key counterpart to reach a wider audience.
- Shared access – Allowing owners to grant temporary digital keys to family or service providers via the Apple Wallet interface.
- Integration with smart home ecosystems – Automating garage door opening when the iPhone approaches the home.
Rivian’s willingness to adopt Apple’s standard signals an industry‑wide shift toward interoperable, cloud‑based vehicle access.
The upcoming 2025.46 update demonstrates how Rivian is leveraging software agility to meet evolving consumer expectations. By offering iPhone car keys through Apple Wallet, Rivian not only simplifies the ownership experience but also reinforces its position as a forward‑looking EV manufacturer.
For the latest on the rollout schedule, owners should monitor Rivian’s OTA notifications and Apple’s support pages.