While most manufacturers are still depending keys and key fobs to unlock and operate their models, BMW took things to the next level back in 2018 when they said that owners can just use their iPhones as a BMW Digital Key, and the feature just got even better.
The feature, which is still available exclusively for iPhones, has been further improvised by the folks at Munich to make things more convenient for future customers.
In line with this goal, the premium car manufacturer will introduce the BMW Digital Key Plus, a convenient and secure way to unlock and start your car without taking your iPhone out of your bag or pocket.
In case you’re wondering what is new, this latest incarnation of the service is based on Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, which is found on the U1 chip of iPhone.
The UWB technology is a short-range, high-bandwidth digital radio technology that is characterized by an exceptionally precise localization with the greatest possible security.
UWB’s precision also ensures that relay attacks, where the radio signal is jammed or intercepted, are not possible.
Apple and BMW said that they have been working closely with the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) to establish the Digital Key specification 3.0 for UWB, providing a global standard for the automotive industry.
The BMW Digital Key Plus feature will be first launched with the all-electric BMW iX for iPhone.
The iX is BMW’s first model based on a new, modular and scalable future BMW Group construction concept, powered by two electric motors that generate a maximum power output of more than 500 hp.
Powered by the fifth generation BMW eDrive technology that comprises two electric motors, the iX is capable of kicking out 500 hp and accelerating from naught to 100 in under 5.0 seconds.
The powertrain also enables the BMW iX to record a range of over 600 kilometres in the WLTP cycle. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent of its full capacity in under 40 minutes using DC fast charging at up to 200 kW.
Added to which, within ten minutes enough energy can be fed into the battery to increase the car’s range by more than 120 kilometres. It takes less than eleven hours to charge the high-voltage battery from 0 to 100 per cent at 11 kW from a Wallbox.
The BMW iX will go into production at BMW Plant Dingolfing from the second half of 2021 as the BMW Group’s new technology flagship. It brings together the company’s latest developments in the strategic innovation fields of Design, Automated Driving, Connectivity, Electrification and Services.
The folks at BMW claim that they are setting new industry standards with the technology in the BMW iX, with things like the high computing power for data processing, more powerful sensor technology than the current line-up, 5G-connectivity, as well as new and improved automated driving and parking functions.
