Google Now Allows iPhone Users to Share Digital Car Keys With Pixel Owners

Google recently adds the ability for iPhone users to share their digital car keys with Pixel users. The new update involves the cross-platform sharing feature which will soon be available for Android 12.

Digital Key Sharing Between iPhone and Pixel Users

According to 9to5Google, the search engine company first teased the feature during the Google I/O 2021. At that time, the tech giant said that the future update would involve accessing the owner's car with a digital key from the Google Wallet app.

Because of this update, a car owner or driver will no longer rely on physical keys to unlock the vehicle. Instead, he/she can access it instantly through their phone, but make sure that the device is within the NFC range.

The digital car keys are limited to some car models. Unlocking a vehicle via an iPhone or Apple Watch will require the user to visit the Apple Wallet.

Recently, Google implemented a lot of improvements for the digital car key so users can take advantage of its cross-platform usability.

As Apple Insider reports, through iMessage, iPhone users can send and receive digital car keys to another iPhone user. However, they can also do the same thing, but this time to a Pixel user minus the iMessage part.

Anytime, an Android or an iOS user can have access to the virtual keys. Anywhere they go, they could deny each other's access and it does not matter what platform the car keys have originated.

Hopefully, more OEM smartphone manufacturers embrace this digital technology to reach more users who are willing to use this feature from their devices.

Pros and Cons of Using Digital Car Keys

While using a car key over the traditional key is convenient, it also has some downsides. Of course, no insertion is required anymore, but the users should take note that the keyless process is not entirely safe.

According to TrueBil, here are the advantages of using digital car keys.

• Convenience: It's no wonder that this digital technology works like charm, especially that the only thing you need to do is to simply click a button on your device.
• Automatic locking: Another strong feature of the keyless system allows you to automatically lock your car anywhere. There's no way people could break in through it unless they shatter the glass.
• Better Security: Several authorization methods prove that the digital car keys are secure and safe in some cases. Some car companies make use of encrypted chips to improve their security system.

Meanwhile, here are the disadvantages of the keyless system.

• Prone to Hackers: Digital thefts are becoming smarter in unlocking digital car keys. Using advanced key programming tools, they can easily gain access to your car and steal your vehicle instantly.
• Expensive Replacement: Traditional keys are cheaper than their digital counterparts. Some car owners are aware that the cost of replacement for these keys is more expensive than you can ever think of.