Hyundai Motor·Kia Collaborate with Samsung·Google·Apple
Unveiling Digital Key 2... Enhanced Compatibility and User Convenience Increased
Hyundai Motor Company and Kia announced that they will provide the enhanced Digital Key 2 service starting from the 18th. In the past, Digital Key could only be used on Samsung or Apple smartphones, but from now on, smartphones from other companies using the Android operating system (OS) will also be supported. Sharing between smartphones with different operating systems will also be possible.
Hyundai Motor Company and Kia introduced this service in collaboration with Samsung, Google, and Apple. The service is characterized by improved compatibility and ease of use. Previously, the Digital Key was stored and used through applications provided by smartphone manufacturers, such as Samsung Pay or Apple Wallet. This meant it could only be used on Samsung and Apple smartphones.
The newly updated Digital Key 2 has been reorganized based on operating systems like Android and iOS. The company explained that it now provides an environment where the service can be offered regardless of the smartphone manufacturer. Utilizing the smartphone’s Ultra-Wideband (UWB) wireless communication, the service allows users to unlock the vehicle doors and start the engine simply by having the smartphone or watch.
Previously, Digital Key sharing was not possible between users of smartphones with different operating systems, but it will be possible going forward. Not only among family members but also when using substitute driving or valet parking services, users can easily share the Digital Key even if they use different smartphones. Currently, this is only available for Samsung and Apple smartphones, and the company plans to gradually expand the compatible models.
To use the new service, users need to update their smartphone operating system and the Digital Key 2 service app or delete the existing Digital Key and re-register it with the vehicle. The company expects high customer satisfaction as more people have recently started using Digital Key. For example, about 90% of individual buyers of the Hyundai Grandeur released last year chose the Digital Key 2 option.
The company stated, "After being the first in the complete vehicle industry to equip the GV60 with Samsung and Apple’s contactless Digital Key 2 function, we are expanding its application to various models," adding, "We will continue to enhance consumer convenience through collaboration with operating system platform companies."
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