The Bmw E Key, also known as the BMW Digital Key, revolutionizes how you interact with your vehicle. This innovative technology allows you to lock, unlock, and even start your BMW using your compatible smartphone or a specially designed key card. Ditch the traditional key fob and embrace the seamless convenience of the BMW e key.
BMW E Key: Your Smartphone as Your Car Key
The BMW e key transforms your compatible iPhone, Google Pixel, or Samsung Galaxy device into a fully functional car key. Simply hold your smartphone near the driver’s side door handle to lock or unlock your BMW. For newer models equipped with Comfort Access, your car will automatically unlock as you approach with your phone. As a backup, you can also activate a BMW Digital Key Card – a credit card-sized NFC key that fits conveniently in your wallet. This ensures you always have access to your vehicle, even without your phone.
Sharing is caring, especially with the BMW e key. iPhone users can share their Digital Key with up to five trusted contacts. You can even customize shared keys with “Driving Restrictions,” limiting the top speed and maximum radio volume for added peace of mind.
Both the BMW Digital Key and the enhanced Digital Key Plus adhere to the stringent security standards of the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) Digital Key specification, ensuring your vehicle remains protected.
BMW Digital Key vs. Digital Key Plus: What’s the Difference?
The standard BMW Digital Key functions similarly to a traditional key, requiring you to hold your phone near the door handle. However, the BMW Digital Key Plus leverages ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, automatically unlocking your car as you approach – no phone tapping required. Digital Key Plus is available on BMWs equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system or newer.
BMW E Key Compatibility: Which Models Are Supported?
BMW Digital Key compatibility extends to 2021 and newer models for Apple devices. The more advanced Digital Key Plus, compatible with both Apple and Android devices, requires a BMW with iDrive 8 or later.
BMW Models Compatible with Digital Key Plus (Apple & Android)
- BMW X1 (2023 and newer)
- BMW X5 (2024 and newer)
- BMW X6 (2024 and newer)
- BMW X7 (2023 and newer)
- BMW XM (2023 and newer)
- BMW 2 Series Coupe (2023 and newer)
- BMW 3 Series (2023 and newer)
- BMW 4 Series (2024 and newer)
- BMW 7 Series (2023 and newer)
- BMW iX (2022 and newer)
- BMW i4 (2022 and newer)
- BMW i5 (2024 and newer)
- BMW i7 (2023 and newer)
Note: This list reflects compatibility as of late 2023. Future BMW models with iDrive 8 should also support Digital Key Plus. Consult your BMW dealer or the official BMW website for the most up-to-date compatibility information.
BMW Models Compatible with Digital Key (Apple Only)
- BMW X5 (2021 and newer)
- BMW X6 (2021 and newer)
- BMW X7 (2021 and newer)
- BMW 2 Series (2021 and newer)
- BMW 3 Series (2021 and newer)
- BMW 4 Series (2021 and newer)
- BMW 5 Series (2021 and newer)
- BMW 8 Series (2021 and newer)
- BMW Z4 (2021 and newer)
- BMW iX (2022 and newer)
- BMW i4 (2022 and newer)
- BMW i7 (2023 and newer)
Setting Up Your BMW E Key: A Step-by-Step Guide
The setup process for your BMW e key varies slightly depending on your smartphone’s operating system.
Setting Up BMW E Key on iPhone
- Open the My BMW App and tap the “Digital Key” tile.
- Select “Start Setting Up Your Digital Key.”
- Ensure both your physical vehicle keys are inside the car. Tap “Continue.”
- Tap “Start Pairing” and follow the on-screen prompts.
Adding to Apple Wallet
- Select “Continue” on the Apple Wallet screen. For Digital Key Plus, you don’t need to use the Smartphone Tray. For the standard Digital Key, place your iPhone in the designated tray.
- After activation, you can remove your iPhone from the tray.
Sharing Your Digital Key on iPhone
- In Apple Wallet, tap the three dots in the upper right corner.
- Under “People,” select “Invite.”
- Choose “Invite” or “Set Access.”
- Define the access level and tap “Invite.”
- The invitation is sent via iMessage.
Setting Up BMW E Key on Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy
- Open the My BMW App and locate the “Digital Key” section.
- Initiate the setup process, ensuring both physical keys are inside the car.
- Tap “Start Pairing.”
- Place your phone in the Smartphone Tray to finalize the pairing.
- Follow the prompts to add the BMW Digital Key to your device’s home screen (Pixel) or Samsung Pass (Galaxy).
Embracing the Future of Car Keys with BMW E Key
The BMW e key represents a significant leap forward in automotive technology, providing unparalleled convenience and security. By integrating seamlessly with your smartphone, the BMW e key simplifies your daily driving experience.
