BMW app enhanced – UPDATE: Digital Key added to Android devices

UPDATE, December 2: BMW has expanded its Digital Key service to the Android smartphone operating system, with support currently limited to Google’s flagship range in Australia and 12 other countries.

Initially an Apple-only feature, users of the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro can now use their smartphone to unlock, start and lock their BMW vehicle, provided the service is available in their car.

Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+ and S21 Ultra users in France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Spain, United Kingdom, and the United States can also add the digital key to their devices.

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Most BMW models manufactured after July 1, 2020 feature the Digital Key service.

BMW says a future update will upgrade selected Android devices to its Digital Key Plus service, which supports ultra-wideband technology and allows drivers to share a key with up to five users.

This functionality was recently added to Apple iPhone 11 and later devices, with the vehicle able to be unlocked without removing the smartphone from a pocket.

The Digital Key can be configured using the My BMW app, which was recently updated to feature extra capabilities – especially for owners of the new iX electric SUV (see below).

The story to here

November 23: BMW Australia has introduced a number of new features to its My BMW app, although some of the new additions will be exclusive to the new iX electric SUV set to launch before Christmas.

The company says the features initially exclusive to the iX will filter down into other models when they receive updates in the future.

The first change is Demo Mode, which allows for the app to be used without the need to actively own a connected BMW. The mode will walk users through the various features available in their desired BMW vehicle, as well as an overview of the functionality situated within the application.

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Existing users of the My BMW app will also be able to synchronise their calendars – including a list of planned journeys – with events displayed directly within it. In addition, any events with a location entry can also be transferred to the vehicle’s built-in navigation system.

BMW vehicles fitted with specific optional extras will allow owners to view their tyre inflation pressures via the app, which is determined through the car’s tyre pressure monitoring system. The service will also showcase the recommended amount for each wheel.

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Another addition is similar to Sentry Mode available on Tesla vehicles, and is currently exclusive to iX variants fitted with alarm and interior camera systems.

Known as Remote Theft Recorder, the service will allow owners to be informed that the alarm system in the iX has been activated via a push notification.

If the alarm is triggered, the vehicle will record images both inside and outside the car, which can then be downloaded using the My BMW app. This means owners will be able to digitally access still images and/or video evidence to provide to authorities if their vehicle is damaged or stolen.

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The final addition is an expansion of BMW’s digital lock/unlock and engine start functionality, BMW Digital Key.

Adding to the Near Field Communication (NFC)-based Digital Key service first unveiled at Apple’s WWDC keynote in June 2020, Digital Key Plus allows for iX drivers to unlock, start and lock the car without the need to remove their smartphone from a pocket.

Utilising ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, the feature is exclusive to the Apple iPhone 11 or later – which are fitted with an ultra-wideband chip that can communicate with the vehicle. It can also be shared with up to five other users.

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Additionally, owners of fully-electric and plug-in hybrid BMW vehicles have been able to access a charging history timeline since the application launched earlier this year, replacing the previous BMW Connected app.

The service also allows drivers to lock/unlock the vehicle, sound the horn, ventilate the cabin and flash the headlights, with selected BMW models also including a remote engine start function.

The My BMW app is available to download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, with additional updates expected as BMW continues to launch updated vehicles with greater connectivity – such as the iX.

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The electric SUV is set to launch in Australia ‘within weeks’, priced from $135,900 before on-road costs for the xDrive40 with a 77kWh battery and 240kW/630Nm electric motor.

The range is topped by the flagship xDrive50 Sport, priced from $169,900 with 385kW/765Nm and an 112kWh battery pack.

In Australia, a free five-year subscription to the Chargefox electric charging network will be included as standard on the iX, with that service accessible via a separate Chargefox app.