As expected, Apple has launched the second beta for iOS 13.4 and Co. In the course of the update, changes were made to the recently unveiled “CarKey” feature carried out.
When Apple released the first preview of iOS 13.4 around two weeks ago, a new function was discovered - CarKey. The feature turns an iPhone and an Apple Watch into a car key. A compatible car can be unlocked, locked and started using the NFC interface. The virtual car key is saved in the Wallet app. As was clear from the first beta, such NFC tags can also be shared with other people. The whole thing has now been made more concrete in the second beta of iOS 13.4. Accordingly, such car keys can be shared using iMessage. The description states:
CarKey keys can be shared with other people in one-on-one conversations but not in group conversations.
Accordingly, sharing NFC tags only takes place in private chat. Sharing such a CarKey tag can be enabled permanently or only temporarily, as can be seen from the new code. The content of this message looks like this:
The [vehicle owner] invites you to use their [vehicle model] with Unlock and Drive access. This allows you to use your iPhone and Apple Watch to unlock and lock the car, start the engine, and drive.
Biometric authentication optional
CarKey access basically works like Apple Pay or Apple Cash. If the user wants to unlock the car, they must be identified biometrically - Face ID or Touch ID. This is to ensure that it is actually the right person. But there is also an alternative - if you want to skip this process, you can activate Express Mode in the settings. In order for CarKey to be used, Apple must enter into a partnership with the car manufacturers. In addition, the respective model requires an NFC interface. This is therefore a factory option, similar to CarPlay.
Car Connectivity Consortium
The Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), whose member includes Apple, developed and released an NFC-based Digital Key 2.0 specification at the end of 2019. This is intended to guarantee a secure connection between mobile devices and cars. In addition, the CCC is working on a Digital Key 3.0 specification that combines Bluetooth and Ultra-broadband Connections are enabled. This means that CarKey could work like this in the future. It is not yet known whether Apple will actually introduce and debut CarKey in iOS 13.4. The company may announce the function at the upcoming March event. (Photo by Jub-Job / Bigstockphoto)
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