Rivian owners have been asking for it — and now it’s official. Rivian Apple CarKey support has been confirmed and will arrive in the next software update, bringing seamless iPhone and Apple Watch integration to the R1T and R1S.

Watch the Full Breakdown

I covered this news in detail in my weekly Rivian News video. Watch the full breakdown here:

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What is Apple CarKey?

Apple CarKey allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicles using an iPhone or Apple Watch, eliminating the need for a fob or app. The system uses:

• NFC (Near Field Communication): Unlock your vehicle by holding your device near the door handle.
• Ultra Wideband (UWB): Enables passive entry — the car recognizes your device without needing to pull it out.
• Wallet App Key Sharing: Share access with family or friends directly from the Apple Wallet app.

Why Rivian Apple CarKey Matters

Until now, Rivian owners have depended on the Rivian app or key fob. While functional, the app requires selecting the correct vehicle and relies on Bluetooth, which can be slow and inconsistent.

With the digital key, unlocking is faster, more reliable, and easier — especially for households with multiple Rivians. Sharing keys becomes effortless, and UWB support ensures smooth access without delays.

Official Confirmation

The first clue came when Rivian appeared in Apple’s configuration files for supported vehicles per Macrumors. Shortly after, Rivian’s Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, confirmed that Apple CarKey support is coming in the next software update.

That means R1T and R1S drivers could be using Rivian Apple CarKey before the end of 2025.

What Owners Should Know

• You’ll need a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch with NFC/UWB support.
• Rivian’s key fob and app will remain available as backup options.

Final Thoughts

The addition of Apple CarKey is a big quality-of-life upgrade for Rivian owners and signals Rivian’s deeper integration into Apple’s ecosystem. For those in the Apple world, this could be one of the most convenient software updates yet.

👉 Be sure to subscribe to my weekly newsletter for updates on when Rivian Apple CarKey goes live and a full setup guide when it launches.