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Volkswagen EV drivers gain Digital Key access through Samsung Wallet
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- DeepHorus
Volkswagen has announced that drivers of its electric vehicles can now use Samsung Wallet to unlock, start, and access their cars using a Digital Key, marking a significant step in connected vehicle technology. This new feature, which eliminates the need for a physical key fob, is rolling out to owners of specific VW ID models in Europe. The move responds to the growing consumer expectation for smartphone-centric vehicle access, where convenience meets daily necessity.
The service is initially available for Volkswagen EVs running the ID. software version 6.0.1, produced on or after April 27, 2026. Compatible models include the ID.3 Neo, ID.4, ID.5, ID.7, ID. Buzz, and the newly announced ID. Polo and ID. Cross. Samsung's Digital Key technology supports multiple access methods, including hands-free entry via ultra-wideband (UWB) and tap-to-unlock using Near Field Communication (NFC).
Beyond basic entry, the Digital Key allows drivers to start the engine and open the trunk remotely through Samsung Wallet. Users can also securely share digital key access with others for purposes like valet parking or lending the car to a family member. All information is protected by Samsung's Knox security platform, offering multiple layers of encryption.
Volkswagen’s senior vice president of concepts & innovation, Dr. Axel Henrich, emphasized that the Digital Key is crucial for creating a "seamless and connected vehicle experience." The feature aligns with the automotive industry's broader push toward digital integration, where the smartphone becomes a central hub for vehicle interaction and control.
Security remains a paramount concern for such features. Samsung addresses this with robust protections. If a smartphone with the Digital Key is lost, owners can use Samsung Find to remotely manage or revoke access, ensuring the vehicle remains secure. The wallet itself also stores credit cards, IDs, and boarding passes, consolidating digital essentials.
The rollout currently covers a wide range of European markets, including Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy, among many others. However, Volkswagen has not yet confirmed a timeline for bringing this Samsung Wallet functionality to drivers in the United States. Market-specific technical and regulatory requirements often dictate such phased international launches.
Looking ahead, Volkswagen reportedly plans to introduce Apple Wallet's car key feature on upcoming vehicles, suggesting a multi-platform approach to digital key support. This initiative by VW and Samsung sets a precedent for how major automakers and tech companies will collaborate to enhance the user experience, blending automotive and mobile ecosystems more tightly than ever before.
