Tired of Toyota’s Digital Key subscriptions? Apple Car Key is potentially coming to Toyota in the future. Apple CarPlay received several meaningful upgrades this year, including improved multi-screen support, tighter vehicle integration, and smarter navigation features designed to reduce driver distraction Alongside these CarPlay improvements, Apple’s digital vehicle access system — Apple Car Key — is also expanding to more automakers.
The Quick Catch-Up
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Timeline: A rollout could start with upcoming Toyota models, potentially coinciding with Toyota’s next-gen software platform.
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Why it Matters: Unlike Toyota’s current Digital Key, Apple Car Key lives in your Apple Wallet, works offline, and (best of all) doesn’t require a monthly subscription.
Is Toyota Finally Joining the Apple Car Key Ecosystem?
According to a report from MacRumors, Apple’s backend systems have recently been updated to include Toyota as a supported manufacturer. Historically, when a brand appears in Apple’s internal code, an official launch follows within months. This signals a massive shift for the world’s largest automaker.
Credit by MacRumors
What Is Apple Car Key and How Does It Work?
Apple Car Key was first introduced in 2020 with iOS 14, allowing drivers to unlock and start compatible vehicles using an iPhone or Apple Watch stored in Apple Wallet.
Key Apple Car Key features include:
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NFC unlocking by tapping your phone on the door handle
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Ultra Wideband (UWB) support for hands-free passive entry
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Express Mode, which works even without Face ID or Touch ID
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Secure key sharing through iMessage
The system uses Apple’s Secure Element and device-level encryption, making it a highly secure alternative to traditional key fobs.
Apple Car Key vs. Toyota Digital Key: What’s the Difference?
Many current Toyota owners use the "Toyota Digital Key" via the Toyota App. Here is why the Apple integration is a major upgrade:
| Feature | Toyota Digital Key (Current) | Apple Car Key (Expect in 2026) |
| Storage | Inside the Toyota App | Native Apple Wallet |
| Cost | Often requires $15/mo subscription | Free |
| Offline Access | Requires cellular data | Works via NFC/UWB (Offline) |
| Key Sharing | Complex app-based process | Simple iMessage share |
| Reliability | Can be laggy/slow | Instant, system-level response |
Which Toyota Models Could Support Apple Car Key?
Toyota has not disclosed:
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Supported models
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Supported regions
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Whether older vehicles will receive updates
Based on past rollouts from other automakers, Apple Car Key support will likely debut on newer Toyota models equipped with compatible NFC or UWB hardware, with gradual expansion over time.
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Which Car Brands Support Apple Car Key？
Apple Car Key support has expanded steadily, and more automakers are officially on board. At WWDC 2025, Apple announced that 13 additional car brands would soon support Apple Car Key, including:
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Audi
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Acura
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Porsche
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GMC
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Cadillac
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Chevrolet
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Rivian
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Smart
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Lucid Motors
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Tata Motors
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Hongqi (Red Flag)
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WEY
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Chery
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Voyah
This growing list highlights Apple’s push to make Apple Car Key a standard feature for iPhone users worldwide.
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Common Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a subscription to use Apple Car Key on a Toyota?
A: No subscription is required from Apple. Apple Car Key is a built-in iOS feature stored in Apple Wallet. However, Toyota may still require account verification or Connected Services activation depending on the vehicle and region.
Q: Will it work with my Apple Watch?
A: Yes. Apple Car Key works with Apple Watch on supported vehicles. With compatible models, you can unlock and start your car using an Apple Watch without carrying your iPhone.
Q: Is Apple Car Key safe?
A: Yes. It uses Apple’s Secure Element and device-level encryption, the same technology that protects Apple Pay and biometric data.
Final thought: Is Apple Car Key Worth Waiting For Toyota Owners?
Apple Car Key’s expansion reflects Apple’s broader strategy to make the iPhone central to the driving experience. If Toyota officially adopts the feature, it would mark a major milestone for both Toyota owners and Apple’s automotive ecosystem.
For now, Apple Car Key support for Toyota looks promising — but confirmation is still pending.
