Apple is readying support for digital car keys in the iPhone and Apple Watch Wallet app for select MINI vehicles, which will allow MINI owners to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles using a pass stored in the Wallet app.
MINI’s parent company BMW launched digital car keys in Wallet back in 2020, making it the first manufacturer to add support for the feature. However, Apple Pay configuration files were updated today to list MINI among supported brands, as reported by MacRumors.
MINI unveiled its next-generation MINI Operating System 9 several months ago, which includes MINI Digital Key Plus. The feature supports Ultra Wideband on both iOS and Android devices. The feature allows MINI drivers to access the vehicle without having to remove their device from their pocket or bag.
MINI Operating System 9 runs on a large circular OLED display known as the MINI Interaction Unit, which is a customizable 9.4-inch screen mounted in the center of the dashboard. The display offers colorful themes to help personalize the vehicle.
The new MINI Interaction Unit with MINI Operating System 9 and MINI Digital Key Plus recently debuted in the new all-electric MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman. Both vehicles will launch next year.
