Rivian Rolls Out a Digital Key: Unlock and Start Your Vehicle With a Galaxy Smartphone or iPhone

Rivian has unveiled a significant software update that will begin rolling out to owners later this year. The update brings several meaningful upgrades, including a new hands-free vehicle access system and expanded drive mode options. Drivers will be able to choose between three distinct driving profiles—Soft, Standard, and Sport—each designed to tailor the vehicle’s response to different preferences and driving conditions.

The most talked-about feature is Rivian’s new digital key, developed in line with the latest standards from the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC). With it, owners of second-generation R1-series vehicles can unlock, start, and even share access to their vehicles using nothing more than a smartphone. The digital key can be stored in Samsung Wallet or similar apps, effectively turning the phone into a full-fledged car key. The system has already been tested and supports not only recent Samsung Galaxy devices, but also Apple iPhones, Apple Watches, and Google Pixel phones.

To unlock the vehicle, users simply bring a compatible device near the door, where the system instantly recognizes the owner—no physical key required. Starting the vehicle is just as easy: place the phone on the designated wireless charging pad inside the cabin. To ensure proper functionality, devices must meet certain requirements, including the Rivian app version 3.8.0 or newer, Bluetooth LE and NFC support, and Android 15 with One UI 7.0, or the corresponding software on Apple devices.

For an even more seamless experience, phones that support Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology don’t need to be held up to the door or placed on the charging pad at all. With UWB-enabled devices, the vehicle automatically unlocks as the driver approaches.

Rivian says the list of supported Samsung devices is extensive. It includes the Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, and S25 families (including FE, Plus, and Ultra variants), multiple generations of Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold models, the Note 20 series, XCover 7 Pro, and several others. Detailed setup instructions for specific devices are available through Rivian’s and Samsung’s official support channels.