Samsung is bringing its Digital Key feature to Volvo and Polestar electric vehicles. Starting this month, owners of the Polestar 3 in North America, Europe, and Asia can use a Samsung Galaxy phone to unlock and start their car. Volvo EX90 owners in those regions plus Latin America will gain this capability shortly after.
Samsung plans to expand Digital Key support to more models from both manufacturers.
Built directly into Galaxy devices, Digital Key lets users lock, unlock and start the paired vehicle without a physical key. Digital Key offers three ways to control the car: Ultra-wideband (UWB) for hands-free access, Near Field Communication (NFC) for tap-to-unlock and start, and Bluetooth low energy (BLE) control via Samsung Wallet.
Users can also share Digital Keys with friends and family across OEM devices, managing access as needed.
However, features like remote locking/unlocking and cabin preconditioning still require the manufacturer’s app.
Samsung Digital Key meets EAL6+ certification standards, the top-level security for smart devices, to protect against unauthorized access by ensuring secure embedding within the device. UWB technologies, a standardized communication protocol set by the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), further reduce the risk of unauthorized vehicle access with precise and reliable functionality. If a device containing a Samsung Digital Key is lost or stolen, users can remotely lock or delete their Digital Key via Samsung Find. Biometric and PIN-based user authentication on Samsung Wallet ensures that every interaction remains secure and private.
Launched in June 2022, Samsung Wallet is a versatile platform that allows Galaxy users to organize Digital Keys, payment methods, identification cards and more in one secure application. Protected by defense-grade security from Samsung Knox and integrated across the Galaxy ecosystem, Samsung Wallet provides seamless connectivity and enhanced security for users in their everyday lives.
Samsung Digital Key is currently available on select Audi, BMW, Mini, Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis models in North America, and some BYD models in other markets.
