BMW has always been at the forefront of luxury and technology. With their innovative digital key feature, BMW owners can now access their vehicles without having to physically use a traditional car key.
The BMW digital key is a modern convenience that allows drivers to use their smartphones instead of physical keys. It offers ease of use, improved safety, and added security features.
If you’re a proud owner of a BMW and want to learn more about how to get this game-changing feature, then keep reading. Our guide will outline everything you need to know about getting your hands on a BMW digital key so you can start enjoying all the benefits it has to offer.
We’ll take you step-by-step through each part of the process, from setting up your account to activating the digital key on your smartphone. By the end of this article, you’ll have a full understanding of what it takes to get a BMW digital key and be ready to enjoy the ultimate driving experience.
Step-by-step guide to get BMW digital key
Download and install the BMW Connected App
If you are a BMW owner, getting your hands on a digital key for your car is quick and easy. To begin with, download the BMW Connected app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store depending upon your smartphone’s operating system.
Set up your BMW Connected account
The next step is to create a BMW Connected account. Open the downloaded BMW Connected app on your phone and click “Register”. Complete all fields as required in the registration form including your name, email id, and password then click “Submit”.
Verify your identity and ownership of the BMW
You will receive an email message asking you to confirm the verification process. Follow the provided instructions–usually replying to that email providing proof of ownership (a copy of your vehicle documentation can do). Once verified, log back into the BMW connected application using your credentials.
Enable the digital key feature and pair with your BMW
Firstly, make sure Bluetooth is turned on within your phone settings. Then open the BMW Connected app go to vehicle > Digital Key > Set Up Access Now. You have the arrival of your digital key screen. Then, at least one door of the BMW must be opened to begin communication between the car & the App. Next, follow the prompts asking if you want to set up the access now on this device. The last steps include confirming the driver(s) who can use the digital key, accept terms and pair accesses. Finally, hold the phone behind the door handle or through the wireless charger pad located in the center console to unlock the doors securely. Place your phone on the charging tray beside the gear selector lever to start it up quickly by pushing the ignition button and pressing your foot on the brakes.
“With Digital Key, you can leave your physical car key at home lock/unlock and start/stop without a key fob.” -Henrik Wenders, Senior Vice President, BMW Group
Congratulations! Now, you will be enjoying all of excellent digital security for free. The digital key feature is already activated from 2018 model year cars equipped with an NFC reader in-door handle itself or wireless charging pad location present within the vehicle as well as any phone running iOs 13 or above which supports ultra-wideband tech “U1 chip” or Android devices with OS 8.0 (Oreo) or above to enjoy this new secure way how to get Bmw Digital Key?
Benefits of having a BMW digital key
BMW has always been at the forefront of innovation and technology. One of the latest technologies introduced by BMW is the digital key, which provides convenience and security features that are not available with traditional metal keys. In this article, we will discuss how to get a BMW digital key and explore the benefits of using it.
Convenient access to your vehicle without carrying a physical key
The most obvious benefit of having a BMW digital key is the convenience factor. With the digital key, you no longer have to worry about forgetting or misplacing your physical key as long as you have your smartphone with you. The digital key allows you to unlock and lock your car seamlessly through Near Field Communication (NFC) technology and Bluetooth connectivity between your phone and your car’s door handles.
You can also start your engine by placing your smartphone in its designated area in the car’s center console and pressing the start button. It’s quick, easy, and hassle-free, making your driving experience smoother and more enjoyable.
The BMW digital key allows you to share access to your car with trusted individuals such as family members or friends. This feature ensures they can drive your car if needed, without giving them complete control over it. The restricted access prevents them from accessing certain features like valet mode or setting speed limits for younger drivers that may need to use your car occasionally.
The process of sharing your digital key with someone is straightforward. You can do it via the BMW Connected app or send an invitation link directly to their mobile device. Once accepted, they’ll be able to use their phone as a digital key just like you, enabling seamless entry to the car whenever they need it.
Increased security features such as disabling the digital key remotely
The BMW digital key comes with additional security measures that make it more reliable and secure than traditional keys. If your phone is lost or stolen, you can disable the digital key’s access to your car through the BMW Connected app. This ensures nobody else will be able to use your vehicle unless they have a physical metal key.
If you need to lend your car to someone but want to restrict their driving abilities, you can do so easily with the Digital Key Plus feature. It allows you to adjust distanced-based speed limits for individual drivers who may be inexperienced or irresponsible behind the wheel of your BMW. You can also set up valet mode in case someone needs to park your car without accessing all its features.
Integration with other BMW Connected features for a seamless driving experience
BMW digital key integration goes beyond unlocking doors; it’s expected that this technology will integrate with other BMW Connect features soon, further enhancing the driving experience. For example, if you frequently use the BMW Parking Assistant function, it will remember which level and spot you parked on and autonomously display directions when you get closer to your destination. Automatically adjusting to fit your driving preferences and habits is at the heart of BMW Connected functionality, providing maximum value for ownership.
“The BMW Digital Key features exceptional levels of functionality combined with high-level security,” says Christoph Gũrtner, Head of Digital Products – BMW Group.
Having a BMW digital key unlocks many benefits that are not available with traditional metal keys. The convenience factor of not having to carry around a physical key is a game-changer, while sharing access via trusted individuals provides flexibility & peace of mind. Additionally, advanced security features ensure only authorized persons gain entry to or drive your car. Integration with other BMW Connected features ensures a seamless driving experience that adapts to your preferences and habits, making your journey much more enjoyable.
Compatible BMW models for digital key
BMW 1 Series (2019 and later)
If you have a BMW 1 series manufactured in 2019 or later, you are in luck as it is compatible with the Digital Key feature. Buying a new car can be stressful but never more so than when trying to figure out how to unlock and start your vehicle with no key. Thankfully, BMW’s latest technology solves this problem in an elegant way.
The benefits of using a digital key go beyond simply eliminating the need for a physical one; users can also share access easily through their mobile device with others. This feature comes in handy if you want to lend your car to someone for a day or two while keeping track of its location at all times.
“The introduction of the BMW Digital Key further enhances the market-leading user experience of our products, blurring the line between modern mobility and everyday living,” said Peter Henrich, Senior Vice President Product Management BMW.
BMW 2 Series (2019 and later)
The BMW 2 Series model range has been around since 2014, and since then it has gone through several updates. The latest version released on the market in 2019 includes BMW’s revolutionary Digital Key system. Anyone who owns a 2 series from this year onwards does not have to worry about carrying any extra sets of keys anymore.
To use the Digital Key, all you need is an iPhone with iOS 13.6 and above. Another cool feature is that once you set up the Digital Key, you will have access to Remote Services such as Car Finder, which allows you to locate where you parked your vehicle quickly. You can also check fuel levels and mileage directly from your phone.
“Once again, we aim to provide greater convenience and ease of use in accessing the vehicle with BMW Digital Key. As a result, our customers can look forward to added value along their mobility needs,” stated Patrick McKenna, Head of Connected Experiences at BMW Group.
If you’re still unsure about how to get your digital key set up, head over to BMW’s website and follow the easy step-by-step instructions on there. Using this technology means no more fumbling around trying to find which pocket your car keys are in, it is as simple as taking out your mobile phone and tapping on it.
Requirements to get BMW digital key
Compatible BMW model and year
In order to get a BMW digital key, you need to have a compatible BMW vehicle. According to the BMW website, the models equipped with Digital Key are: 1 Series (08/2020+), 2 Series Gran Coupe, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series (07/2020+), 6 Series GT (07/2020+), 8 Series (07/2020+), X5 (07/2020+), X6 and X7 (08/2020+).
If you own any of these vehicles that meet the compatibility requirements, then you can proceed to the next step in getting a BMW digital key and enjoy all its benefits.
BMW Connected App downloaded on a compatible smartphone
To use your BMW digital key, you must download the BMW Connected app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices. Your phone must be running on Android 5.0 Lollipop or newer, or iOS 11.0 or newer, so make sure your device meets this requirement before proceeding with the download.
The BMW Connected app plays a significant role in providing security and convenience when using the digital key feature. Aside from being able to lock and unlock your car remotely, it also allows you to activate features such as climate control and headlights so that your car is ready even before you enter it. These convenient features not only save time but improve your overall driving experience.
BMW Connected account set up and verified
After downloading the BMW Connected app, you will need to create an account. You can do this by following the instructions provided upon first opening the app. Once you have signed up, verify your account by clicking the link in the email that will be sent to the email address you provided. This step is necessary as it guarantees that the digital key feature is only accessible by the vehicle owner.
To ensure the security of your BMW Connected app and the information it contains, choose a strong password. Avoid using obvious or predictable passwords like ‘password,’ ‘123456,’ or any other phrases easily associated with you like your date of birth.
- Always usea unique password that nobody else can guess
- Avoid using simple patterns such as dates or names for the password
- Make sure that your chosen password is at least eight characters long
- Use different passwords for different accounts to prevent hackers from accessing multiple accounts at once
By setting up a secure and verified BMW Connected account, you are on your way to experiencing the convenience of a BMW digital-key-equipped vehicle.
“Passwords are like underwear: don’t let people see them, change them very often, and don’t share them with strangers.” -Chris Pirillo
Getting a BMW digital key requires three things: having a compatible BMW vehicle model and year, downloading the BMW Connected app on a compatible smartphone, and creating a BMW Connected account and verifying it. By completing these steps, you’ll make car ownership more convenient and secure.
Digital key not appearing in BMW Connected App
If you are facing an issue where your BMW digital key is not appearing in the BMW Connected App, there could be several reasons for it. Firstly, make sure that your car supports the digital key feature. Check if your phone’s operating system and app version are compatible with your vehicle’s built-in technology.
You can also try restarting your phone or uninstalling and reinstalling the app. If none of these methods work, get in touch with a BMW support representative or visit your dealership to troubleshoot further.
Issues with Bluetooth connectivity between phone and BMW
Bluetooth connectivity issues between your smartphone and BMW can make it difficult to set up or use your digital key. This problem can arise due to outdated software versions, incorrect settings, or network interference.
To fix this issue, begin by checking if your car and phone systems’ Bluetooth features are turned on. Next, restart both devices and retry connecting them. Another solution could be to delete all paired devices associated with your BMW and then reconnect them one-by-one. Most importantly, ensure that both your phone and car have their latest updates installed.
The inability to share your BMW digital key with others may stem from various causes. For instance, the person whom you are sharing the key with must also have an iPhone with iOS 13.6 (or newer) installed, along with the BMW Connected app.
You should also check that they are listed as a contact in your phone book and that “Share Access” has been enabled within the BMW Connected app. Furthermore, verify that you sent the invitation to the correct user, and they accepted it.
If you have followed all of these steps and still can’t share digital access, try deleting the key from your phone’s app and then resend the invitation. Remember to inform the recipient to accept the new invite.
Troubleshooting tips for resolving common issues
- Restart all systems: If you are encountering problems with the BMW digital key functionality, a simple restart of both your car’s computer system and the smartphone device may resolve the issue.
- Reinstall the BMW Connected App: Uninstalling and reinstalling the BMW Connected App has solved several reported issues. It is an easy process that involves accessing your phone’s app store and downloading it again.
- Contact BMW support: If you have tried everything listed above but still need additional help, don’t hesitate to contact BMW customer service or visit your local dealership to diagnose the problem further.
- Check network connections: The BMW digital key feature requires a stable internet connection. Verify that your vehicle is within range of cellular data or Wi-Fi connectivity, depending on what you use.
“The technological innovation in our cars continues to enable more personalization of how we interact with them, making ownership even more enjoyable.” -Uwe Dreher, Head of Digital Product Management at BMW AG
Getting a BMW digital key provides convenience and flexibility, allowing you to operate your car without traditional means like carrying physical keys. Like any technology, the system might develop problems over time due to various reasons such as software compatibility errors, slow internet, among others. However, with the right troubleshooting techniques, you can quickly fix most of the common problems to get back to using your digital key smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a BMW Digital Key and how does it work?
A BMW Digital Key is a new feature that allows you to use your smartphone to lock, unlock, and start your BMW. It works by using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to communicate with your car’s onboard computer. You can also use the BMW Digital Key to share access with family or friends.
What are the requirements to get a BMW Digital Key?
To get a BMW Digital Key, you will need a compatible BMW vehicle that has been manufactured after July 2020. You will also need a smartphone that supports NFC technology and the BMW Connected App. The app must be installed and set up on your phone.
What should I do if I lose my BMW Digital Key?
If you lose your BMW Digital Key, you should immediately disable it by logging in to the BMW Connected App and deleting the key from your account. You can then set up a new Digital Key by following the same steps as before.
Yes, you can share your BMW Digital Key with family or friends by sending them an invite through the BMW Connected App. You can also customize the access level for each person, allowing them to control certain features of your car or limiting their access to specific times or dates.