The first models to get the new BMW Digital Key and BMW Key Card will be the new G05 X5 and 8 Series. The two new models will get the feature as an optional extra starting this autumn as this marks a new way of using your car. Basically the two options allow you to lock and unlock your car without using a key fob. Instead of the traditional way of doing things, customers will now be able to use other devices to get going.
The BMW Digital Key available for the new BMW 8 Series Coupe and new BMW X5 (if Comfort Access is specified) allows the car to be unlocked and locked using the owner’s smartphone. Once inside, the engine can be started as soon as the phone has been placed in the wireless charging or smartphone tray. The Digital Key is available as part of the BMW Connected app, can be shared with up to five people and can be used with selected Near Field Communication (NFC)-compatible smartphones.
Alternatively, the new BMW Key Card will be available from November 2018. This sophisticated key card likewise has NFC technology and therefore offers the same functionality as a similarly equipped smartphone. The BMW Key Card can also be passed on to the relevant parties if the car is at the workshop, has broken down or the customer is using a valet parking service. This feature is different from the Activity Key we saw earlier this year.
The Activity Key was introduce with the new X4 and, even though it has the same basic concept behind it, is a different option altogether. It is a water-resistant device that has no buttons whatsoever but allows you to lock and unlock your car, start the engine and even has your settings stored. It was created to allow you to have it on your wrist whenever you don’t want to carry your key fob with you, for example when going swimming or maybe hiking, as it can be worn around your wrist. The feature is available for the G30 5 Series, 7 Series, new X3 and X4 models.
