Rivian has begun rolling out its Digital Key feature for second-generation R1S and R1T owners as part of software update 2025.46. The feature allows owners to store their vehicle key natively within smartphone and smartwatch digital wallets, replacing the previous Bluetooth-based phone key system with more advanced connectivity technology.
Highlights
- Digital Key integrates with Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet on compatible smartphones and smartwatches
- Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology enables high-precision passive entry for seamless vehicle access
- NFC backup functionality allows vehicle access even when the phone battery is depleted
- Owners can share up to eight digital keys with family members and friends
CCC Standard Ensures Broad Compatibility
Rivian built its Digital Key using the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) standard, ensuring compatibility across major mobile platforms. Supported devices include iPhone, Apple Watch, Google Pixel smartphones, and Samsung devices.
The system leverages UWB technology for precise passive entry, detecting the owner’s approach and unlocking the vehicle automatically. When UWB is unavailable or the phone battery dies, NFC tap functionality provides reliable backup access.
Key Sharing Expands Vehicle Access
The Digital Key system supports sharing capabilities for households with multiple drivers. Vehicle owners can distribute up to eight digital keys to family members or friends through their respective wallet apps.
iOS users can share keys to Android devices via SMS, email, or messaging apps. Android users follow the same process for sharing to iOS devices. One notable requirement applies when an Android owner shares with an iOS user who has an Apple Watch, as two separate invitations must be sent for phone and watch access.
Software and App Requirements
Digital Key requires vehicle software version 2025.46 or later and the Rivian mobile app version 3.8.0 or later. The feature is exclusive to Gen 2 R1 vehicles and is not available for Gen 1 owners due to hardware differences in the vehicle’s connectivity systems.
The 2025.46 update includes several additional features beyond Digital Key, including Universal Hands-Free driving capabilities, new Autonomy Drive Styles, and enhanced Driver Display options for both Gen 1 and Gen 2 vehicles.
Source: Rivian Stories
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