Tesla may be preparing to support Apple’s digital Car Keys, a move that would bring its vehicles closer to Apple’s ecosystem and address long-standing issues with its phone-key system.
The first hints appeared in Tesla’s latest mobile app update, where new code references point to “wallet-based” keys instead of app-dependent access. That shift is significant because, as of today, Tesla relies on a Bluetooth Phone Key that depends on the app running reliably in the background. When it doesn’t due to OS restrictions, crashes, or battery optimisation, drivers often have to reopen the app or fall back to a physical key card.
Apple’s Car Keys work differently. It is stored directly in the Apple Wallet app and secured by the iPhone’s Secure Enclave, a dedicated part of the hardware that protects sensitive data. They operate at the system level, meaning the phone itself controls access not the app. This allows users to unlock and start supported vehicles even when the phone battery is low, the app isn’t open, or Face ID is disabled. It’s a quieter, more reliable experience, something Apple has been pushing as part of its broader “phone as your wallet” strategy.
Interestingly, the first wallet references spotted in Tesla’s code point to Huawei’s HarmonyOS Wallet, not Apple Wallet. That detail suggests Tesla may be testing native digital keys in China before expanding the feature elsewhere, a rollout pattern the company has used in the past.
Still, moving away from app-only keys toward OS-level wallet integration lines up closely with how Apple Car Keys are implemented.
If Tesla follows through with this, it would join a growing list of automakers embracing native digital keys. Apple has steadily expanded car key support across brands, positioning the iPhone as a central access tool not just for payments and identity, but for vehicles as well.
Techloy has tracked this shift before, especially as Apple deepens its push into cars through CarPlay upgrades and vehicle-level software partnerships. At WWDC 2025, Apple confirmed 13 additional vehicle brands will soon offer iPhone Car Key support, further broadening its automotive ecosystem For Tesla owners, Apple Car Key could solve everyday hiccups. Other EV makers like Rivian already let iPhones and Apple Watches unlock and start vehicles directly from the Wallet app, including passive entry as you approach, no app open, no button tap needed. Many brands such as Audi and BMW offer similarly integrated keys for a smoother, more reliable experience.
Ogbonda Chivumnovu
