Apple is cooking up a new update for iPhone and Apple Watch owners that could ensure you never forget your car keys again… as long as you never forget your phone. Yes, the first beta version of the next major operating system upgrade for iPhone, dubbed iOS 13.4, contains clues that Apple will allow your handset to replace your keys.
Spotted by the eagle-eyed team at 9To5Mac, the first beta version of iOS 13.4 includes a reference to a “CarKey” API – a software tool that enables third-party applications the ability to access a set of features or data baked directly into the operating system, or other service. In this case, it seems the “CarKey” API enables the use of the NFC chip – the hardware inside an iPhone and Apple Watch that enables contactless payments via Apple Pay.
Unlike Android smartphones, which enable third-party apps to access NFC to enable pairing with wireless headphones as well as payment with loyalty cards and other features, Apple has held a vice-like grip on the NFC chip inside of its hardware. As it stands, it’s only used for tap-to-pay transactions with Apple Pay. This is believed to be to boost the security of the iPhone as well as conserve battery life. But the “CarKey” API could change all of that.
According to 9To5Mac, the update could let iPhone unlock cars by holding the handset close to the reader. It doesn’t appear Apple will demand users authenticate with FaceID, so users could hand their smartphone to a friend or family member to quickly pop-open the boot, or grab something from the backseat.
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Unbelievably, it seems the feature will continue to work when your iPhone is out of battery. So, even if the smartphone is out of juice – and you haven’t splurged on a Smart Battery Case from Apple – you’ll be able to get into your car and drive home.
In addition, iPhone owners will be able to gift family members and friends access to your vehicle. This is handled via the Wallet app, which is currently used to hold your credit cards, debit cards, plane, cinema and train tickets, as well as reservations to pick up a new iPhone from the Apple Store.
Although the set-up process is handled via the Wallet app, you will also need the companion app from your automaker – hence the API. This lets you set-up the model and complain the pairing with the vehicle. You’ll also be able to add your virtual car key to your Apple Watch via the Wallet app.
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The ability to unlock your car with your iPhone and Apple Watch isn’t anything new. In fact, a number of apps – like the Tesla app – already offer the ability.
But building the function directly into the mobile operating system as a core feature could really help boost adoption. It also means Apple has tie-in integration with the likes of Siri, as well as including the feature in its Home app.
Given that we’ve only just seen the first beta of iOS 13.4, it’ll likely be a while before the final version is available to launch worldwide.
Other new features include new poses for MeMoji stickers, as well as sharing within iCloud Drive, and support for in-app purchases in Watch apps, amongst others.