Cadillac prepares Apple Car Key support for iPhone and Apple Watch

Cadillac prepares to join Apple Car Key

Cadillac is preparing to support drivers so they can unlock and start select models with an iPhone or Apple Watch, once GM enables this feature. The goal is to let owners leave the fob at home and use their devices instead.

Autoblog and MacRumors report Apple’s backend code now lists Cadillac among vehicles supporting Car Key. Keys are stored in Apple Wallet and use NFC (and, in some cases, UWB/BLE, depending on the vehicle) for secure access, pending GM activation.

Apple Wallet holds your digital key

The Car Key feature lets an iPhone or Apple Watch act as a car key for select vehicles. Drivers can lock, unlock, and start their cars without touching a physical key.

The system relies on NFC and other wireless technologies to ensure secure operation. Apple introduced Car Key in 2020; support has since expanded across multiple brands and models.

Cadillac joins a growing trend

Apple confirmed at WWDC 2025 that 13 brands, including Cadillac, would soon support Car Key. This places Cadillac alongside other well-known automakers adopting digital key technology.

Mac Daily News notes the list also includes Porsche, Acura, GMC, and Chevrolet, showing that the feature is expanding beyond niche luxury brands. Chinese automakers, such as Hongqi and Chery, are also planning to adopt it soon.

GM must enable the feature

Apple has added backend support for Cadillac, but GM must activate Car Key on its vehicles. The automaker’s software team needs to write the code to make the feature usable for drivers.

MacRumors explains that GM has not confirmed which Cadillac models will support the key first. This means customers will need to wait until the company enables it and releases official details.

Move away from CarPlay

GM has moved to phase out Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on many future EVs, yet Car Key is a separate access credential and can be supported independently.

GM has recently characterized the phase-out as a gradual transition. Cadillac hasn’t announced model-specific Car Key timing. This allows drivers to focus on seamless access without affecting in-car media.

A step toward smartphone integration

Car Key makes iPhones and Apple Watches a central part of the driving experience. Drivers can store keys in their device rather than relying on a traditional key fob.

Autoblog notes that this integration strengthens the link between luxury cars and smartphone ecosystems. Cadillac’s adoption of the feature demonstrates how premium vehicles are increasingly integrating with everyday technology.

Car Key technology basics

Apple Car Key uses NFC and wireless tech to communicate securely with the car. Drivers can lock, unlock, and start compatible vehicles without touching a physical key.

This system is similar to Apple Pay, making it a familiar and convenient experience. Keys are stored virtually in the Wallet app, giving users access anytime without worrying about losing a key.

Luxury brands lead the way

BMW debuted Apple Car Key in 2020, and Mercedes-Benz, as well as others, have added support for it on select models since then. Broader adoption among mainstream brands followed.

Autoblog notes that Hyundai and Kia also now support digital keys. This indicates that the convenience of phone-based car access is no longer limited to high-end vehicles and is becoming a standard expectation.

Cadillac rollout timing unclear

There is no confirmed launch date for the Cadillac Car Key yet. Backend support is ready, but GM still needs to enable the feature for drivers to use it.

Coverage frames the rollout as more of a ‘when’ than an ‘if,’ but no launch date is confirmed. Customers may have to wait for GM to finalize software updates and announce which models will get the feature first.

Expanding Apple Car Key network

Apple named 13 brands that will ‘soon’ support Car Key (including Cadillac, Porsche, Acura, GMC, Chevrolet, Rivian, Smart, Lucid, Tata, Hongqi, WEY, Chery, Voyah), without dates.

Mac Daily News highlights that Chinese brands like Hongqi, WEY, Chery, and Voyah are also included. This shows Apple Car Key is becoming a global standard for digital vehicle access.

Convenience for Cadillac owners

Owners of select Cadillac models will no longer need a physical key. Drivers can tap their iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock the doors and access their cars quickly.

Starting the car is just as simple. With NFC technology, the same device allows seamless engine ignition, making everyday driving more convenient and reducing the chance of losing keys.

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Part of a tech ecosystem

Digital keys bring cars and smartphones closer together. Apple Car Key makes the vehicle feel like an extension of the device in your pocket.

Cadillac’s adoption shows luxury mobility is increasingly tied to Apple devices. Drivers can now carry a car key alongside Apple Pay and digital passes, centralizing access to both payments and vehicle entry.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.