Hyundai’s Digital Key Program Expands

Smartphones have opened a whole new world for automakers to include connected services and upgraded technology features in new vehicles, and Hyundai has one of the more robust offerings in the industry. Hyundai recently announced an expansion of its Digital Key 2 system, which brought wider smartphone support and new features for several models.

Hyundai announced that the Digital Key 2 will offer compatibility with both iPhone and Android and is working with smartphone manufacturers to continue expanding access. The updated function is the first in the industry to offer cross-brand or cross-platform key sharing between smartphones, allowing owners to share keys with family and friends, regardless of their phone brand. Though several companies share operating systems, such as Android, each manufacturer takes a slightly different approach to implementing various features, which complicates vehicle connections and makes it harder to accommodate all brands and phone models. 

Vehicle owners can use Digital Key 2 to unlock, lock, and remotely start vehicles, and some phones have advanced features that enable proximity unlock services when the owner is near the vehicle. The services are initially available for the Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel phones, and Hyundai said more brands will be included later.

The Digital Key 2 system works with all new Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles, and the automaker said that older models will be able to use some features after a software update. Some models already have the feature on board, such as the Genesis GV60, and newer models, like the upcoming Kia EV9, will get Digital Key 2 out of the box. 

Hyundai’s Digital Key 2 system joins the automaker’s other connected services, including Bluelink, which lets owners check vehicle service history and health, schedule maintenance visits, and more. The feature also enables remote start and lets owners pre-program navigation destinations. 

When you’re ready to learn more about Hyundai’s advanced technologies, Hyundai of Mankato’s experienced staff will be more than happy to show you the ins and outs of the new systems. We also have a full range of new Hyundai models to get you on the road in the car of your dreams in no time.