Enhancing Mobility: The BMW Digital Key for Android Users

In a relentless effort to improve the Android operating system, Google has introduced a range of features aimed at simplifying everyday tasks. Among these innovations, Android Auto has stood out for over a decade, facilitating seamless integration between smartphones and vehicles.

One of the hallmark features that emerged in 2021 as part of Android 12 was the Android Digital Car Key. This groundbreaking technology allows users to store a digital version of their car keys in their Google Wallet or Samsung Wallet, ensuring access to their vehicles even without the physical key fob.

Initially available to select devices and vehicles, this feature was first adopted by BMW in December 2021, branding it as the “BMW Digital Key.”This marked a significant leap towards a keyless driving experience.

Understanding BMW Digital Key and BMW Digital Key Plus

The BMW Digital Key solutions—namely the BMW Digital Key and BMW Digital Key Plus—offer users a modernized way to access their vehicles without traditional keys. While both digital keys serve the same fundamental function of locking, unlocking, and starting the vehicle, they utilize different technologies.

The BMW Digital Key operates using Near Field Communication (NFC), requiring users to hold their smartphone close to the car door handle. In contrast, the Digital Key Plus enhances convenience by employing an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Bluetooth connection, automatically unlocking the vehicle as the user approaches.

Additionally, the Digital Key Plus incorporates advanced functionalities such as Great Entrance Moments and Remote Control Parking. If you’re excited about utilizing these features, let’s explore how to set up the BMW Digital Key on your Android device.

Compatible BMW Models for the Digital Key

According to BMW’s official documentation, the following models are compatible with the BMW Digital Key:

Note: In the list, SOP signifies Start of Production.

• 1 Series (F40) | SOP – July 2020
• 1 Series (F70)
• 2 Series (F44) | SOP – July 2020
• 2 Series (G42)
• 3 Series (G20/G21) | SOP – July 2020 (G21) & August 2020 (G20)
• 4 Series (G22/G23/G26) | SOP – July 2020
• 5 Series (G60)
• 7 Series (G70)
• 8 Series (G15/G16/G14) | SOP – July 2020
• M2 (G87)
• M3 (G80/G81/G82) (Available with M Steptronic transmission only)
• M4 (G82/G83) (Available with M Steptronic transmission only)
• M5 (G90/G99)
• M8 (F92/F93) | SOP – July 2020
• X1 (U11)
• X2 (U10)
• X3 LCI (G01/F97)
• X3 (45)
• X4 LCI (G02/F98)
• X5 (G05/F95) | SOP August 2020
• X5 LCI (G05/F95)
• X6 (G06) | SOP August 2020
• X7 (G07) | SOP August 2020
• X7 LCI (G07)
• XM (G09)
• iX3 (G08)
• iX (I20)

Setting Up the BMW Digital Key on Your Android Device

To start using the BMW Digital Key, ensure that your Android device is compatible, such as models from Google, Samsung, or Xiaomi 13. It’s crucial that you also own a BMW model that meets the necessary specifications. With everything in place, follow the steps below to configure your Digital Key:

Note: The following steps are designed for establishing the BMW Digital Key on eligible Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy phones, and Xiaomi 13 or newer devices.

Prior to beginning the setup, ensure you have a BMW ID linked to your car and the My BMW App installed on your device.

1. Open the My BMW App.
2. Locate and tap on the BMW Digital Key tile.
3. On the “Welcome BMW Digital Key” screen, select Set up Digital Key.
4. Tap Continue, ensuring the physical keys are present in the vehicle.
5. Select Start Pairing on the next screen.
6. Place your Android device in the smartphone tray inside the BMW to complete the pairing process.
7. Finally, follow the on-screen instructions to add the Digital Key icon to your device’s Home screen.

For a detailed video tutorial on setting up the BMW Digital Key, check out the embedded link here:

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Using Your BMW Digital Key

Once the BMW Digital Key is successfully configured on your device, enjoy the convenience of locking, unlocking, and starting your BMW without the need for traditional keys, provided your model supports it. To unlock your car, simply hold your phone near the door handle. In some cases, adjusting the position of your phone may be necessary for optimal NFC signal capture. After entering the vehicle, place your phone in the smartphone tray and press the start/stop button as shown below.

Note: The BMW Digital Key remains operational for several hours, even if your phone enters power reserve mode.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of setting up and utilizing the BMW Digital Key on your Android device. If you know someone who has recently purchased a new BMW and would benefit from this information, feel free to share this article with them!

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