Tesla Launches App That Turns Apple Watch Into Car Key

Back in March, Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk suggested that integrating the Apple Watch with Tesla’s electric vehicles could be on the horizon. Months later, tech enthusiasts combing through the Tesla app unearthed references to a possible smartwatch feature.

Today, Tesla has officially announced the upcoming launch of an Apple Watch app. This release is set to coincide with the 2024 Tesla Holiday Update, enabling users to access the watchOS version of the Tesla app through an over-the-air (OTA) update that will begin next week.

This new app will provide users with various features, such as viewing the current battery charge of their vehicle, opening the front trunk, and remotely controlling climate settings. The standout feature, however, will be its ability to function as a mobile key.

A mobile key, accessible through a smartphone app, allows users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicle. In Tesla models, the mobile key operates through Bluetooth technology, unlocking the doors automatically when someone approaches and pulls the handle.

Similarly, the Walk-Away Door Lock feature automatically secures the doors when users depart with their registered smartphone. Once a device is identified as a trusted mobile key, users don’t need an internet connection to take advantage of the functionalities.

There’s a limit on the number of mobile keys that can be authenticated for a Tesla vehicle, likely for safety reasons. For instance, the entry-level Tesla Model 3 allows up to three mobile keys at any one time.

Tesla vehicles also support NFC technology for unlocking, similar to the key card option the company provides. However, it’s not clear from Tesla’s announcement whether the Apple Watch app will utilize Bluetooth, NFC, or both methods.

Notably, the Wallet app on Apple Watch already permits users to store digital keys for various applications, including access to homes, hotel rooms, cars, and scooters via NFC technology. Besides luxury automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, companies like Kia have also adopted this technology.

In addition to launching the Apple Watch app, the Holiday Update will also allow users to view and save video clips captured by their car’s cameras using Dashcam and Sentry Mode. Additionally, they will be able to set desired battery charging levels when arriving at their destination and monitor weather conditions on the Map feature.

“While in Reverse, your vehicle will alert you if it detects a pedestrian or vehicle crossing behind,” the update notes, adding that the car will also provide an audible warning if it perceives a potential cross-traffic hazard.

For a fun twist, there’s a new Emissions feature that triggers a fart sound when someone sits down in the seat. Users can manually activate this feature by pressing the left scroll wheel for a good laugh.