Mercedes-Benz is broadening access to its Digital Car Key, allowing new E-Class owners to operate their vehicles without a traditional key using an iPhone or Apple Watch. The news was reported by 9to5Mac and highlights a growing trend toward smarter, phone-based vehicle access across the luxury segment.
At the core, Digital Car Key uses Apple Car Key technology, a platform already adopted by several major automakers. In addition to Mercedes-Benz, brands such as BMW, Kia, Hyundai, Genesis, and BYD have integrated similar capabilities. The system enables users to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle with just a mobile device, while digital keys are securely stored in the Wallet app. Sharing capabilities allow key access to other iPhone users via AirDrop, iMessage, or other messaging methods, making family or team access simpler than ever.
Within the Mercedes me ecosystem, the account owner can assign precise permissions to each recipient. Some individuals may be granted access solely to the vehicle, while others can be authorized to start and operate the car. The design accommodates multiple users simultaneously, with a practical limit of up to 16 people who can hold a digital key for a single vehicle. This layered access supports owners who need to coordinate with family members, service providers, or ride-sharing arrangements without handing over a physical key.
Mercedes-Benz has signaled plans to extend this feature to additional models across its lineup in coming months. The expansion aims to weave Digital Car Key more deeply into the brand’s connectivity ecosystem, offering a seamless experience as more vehicles gain compatibility with smartphone-based access and remote management tools.
Industry observers note that several tech and auto brands have explored or deployed smartphone-based keys, underscoring a broader shift toward keyless entry, remote vehicle management, and enhanced digital responsibility. This movement reflects consumer demand for convenience, safety, and flexible access control in modern mobility, a trend acknowledged by multiple players in the automotive and tech sectors (industry coverage cited).