Samsung Wallet Adds Digital Car Key Support for SAIC Volkswagen ID. ERA 9X

Samsung Wallet now supports the digital car key feature for SAIC Volkswagen’s ID. ERA 9X models, enabling seamless unlocking, locking, and vehicle ignition. Users must install Samsung Wallet (version 5.5.77 or higher) from the Galaxy Store and the SAIC Volkswagen app (version 5.0.4 or higher), then bind their vehicle information within the SAIC Volkswagen app before adding the digital car key via Samsung Wallet. Once "hands-free unlock" authorization is enabled, users can automatically unlock or lock their vehicle simply by approaching it with a smartphone that has SAIC Volkswagen’s Bluetooth car key activated—no need to open the automaker’s app or keep it running in the background. Previously, in July 2024, Samsung Wallet added support for Bluetooth-based digital car keys for NIO and Li Auto vehicles, compatible with devices like the Galaxy S24 series. In May 2023, Samsung partnered with BMW in Brazil to launch NFC- and UWB-based digital car keys compatible with devices such as the Galaxy S23 series. Additionally, smartphone manufacturers including vivo and OPPO have also collaborated with multiple automakers to offer digital car key functionality. Apple has supported digital car keys for brands including BMW, Rivian, Kia, and Hyundai through its Wallet app since 2022.