Tesla is working on native car keys for smartphones

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A change is emerging at Tesla that could fundamentally affect how the digital car key is handled. New findings in the code of the Tesla app suggest that Tesla plans to introduce native digital car keys at the operating system level. This also makes support for Apple Car Keys a possibility. The move would be technically and strategically significant and would bring Tesla closer to solutions already used by other manufacturers.

The digital key has been a standard feature at Tesla for years. The smartphone replaces the traditional key, allowing users to unlock, lock, and start the vehicle. This system currently relies on Bluetooth and the Tesla app. However, new indications suggest that Tesla is working on a more modern solution that is more deeply integrated into the operating system. This could bring greater reliability and convenience in the long run.

Notes in the Tesla app 4.52.0

The trigger for the current speculation is version 4.52.0 of the Tesla app. According to reports from Not a Tesla App, several code references to so-called Harmony Wallet Key Cards were discovered within it. These terms suggest that Tesla is preparing native digital car keys for the first time, which are stored directly at the operating system level.

This represents a significant departure from the previous approach. The current Tesla Phone Key works exclusively via Bluetooth communication between the vehicle and the app, which must be running in the background on the smartphone. A native wallet key, on the other hand, is stored directly within the system and accesses secure hardware components. As a result, it is generally more stable, faster to access, and less prone to connection problems.

Difference between Phone Key and Wallet Key

The existing Tesla Phone Key is convenient, but it also has limitations. If the smartphone's power-saving features are activated or the app's background activity is restricted, unlocking can be delayed. Software updates or Bluetooth issues also directly affect its functionality.

A native digital car key works differently. It's part of the operating system and not dependent on a single app. These keys are stored in secure hardware areas and are available even when the smartphone is locked or has a low battery. This is precisely the approach used in Apple Car Keys and similar solutions.

Focus on HarmonyOS and the Chinese market

The code strings found in the Tesla app specifically relate to HarmonyOS and its integration with Huawei Wallet. HarmonyOS is developed by Huawei and is particularly widespread in China, where Huawei holds a dominant position in the smartphone market.

That Tesla is focusing on this market is considered no coincidence. The Chinese market has been used repeatedly in the past as a testbed for new Tesla software features before their international rollout. The evidence therefore suggests that Tesla is initially testing native digital car keys on HarmonyOS devices.

Parallels to Apple Car Keys

Although neither Apple Wallet nor Google Wallet are explicitly mentioned in the Tesla app yet, the underlying technology is clear. Apple introduced Car Keys in Apple Wallet back in 2020. This allows compatible vehicles to be unlocked, locked, and started via NFC, Bluetooth, or Ultra Wideband.

The digital car keys are stored in the Secure Enclave of iPhone and Apple Watch. Features like Express Mode allow vehicle access without Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. Even with a nearly depleted battery, the key remains usable for a certain period. The advantages lie primarily in reliability, security, and convenience.

The evidence of wallet-based keys now discovered at Tesla fits functionally very well with this concept, even if direct support for Apple Car Keys has not yet been confirmed.

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Other manufacturers are already leading the way

Tesla wouldn't be alone in taking such a step. Earlier this month, Rivian announced native support for digital car keys in Apple Wallet and Google Wallet with software update 2025.46. In the following weeks, Porsche, Toyota, and General Motors also showed similar efforts.

The trend within the industry is clear. More and more car manufacturers are moving away from purely app-based solutions and opting for standardized, operating system-integrated car keys. This development increases the pressure on Tesla to offer a comparable solution.

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Digital keys at Tesla are facing possible expansion

The clues in the Tesla app version 4.52.0 clearly indicate that Tesla is working on native digital car keys. The current focus on HarmonyOS and Huawei Wallet suggests an initial test run in China. Even though Apple Car Keys hasn't been officially mentioned, the functional similarities are obvious.

Should Tesla pursue this approach, later integration with Apple Wallet or Google Wallet would be a logical next step. For Tesla vehicles, this would represent a significant advancement in digital access and would meaningfully complement or eventually replace the existing Bluetooth-based Phone Key. (Image: Shutterstock / Sport car hub)