Digital Key to Launch in Europe in August, Initially Supporting Seven ID. Electric Vehicle Models
Volkswagen and Samsung Electronics have officially announced a partnership to launch a digital key service, which will roll out in 38 European countries and regions starting August 18, 2026. The first wave of supported models includes the ID. Polo, ID. Cross, ID.3 Neo, ID.4, ID.5, ID.7, and ID. Buzz—seven all-electric models from the ID. series. Owners can use the Samsung Wallet app on their smartphones to unlock, lock, and start their vehicles without needing a physical key.
Dr. Axel Heinrich, Senior Vice President of Concepts & Innovation at Volkswagen Passenger Cars, stated that the digital key represents a significant milestone in achieving a seamless and connected vehicle experience for customers. He emphasized that this feature not only enhances operational convenience but also further elevates the intelligence of Volkswagen’s electric vehicles.
Ultra-Wideband and NFC Technology Support Enable Flexible Remote Sharing
The digital key service combines ultra-wideband (UWB) and Near Field Communication (NFC) technologies, allowing owners to unlock their vehicle doors automatically via smartphone proximity or start the vehicle with a simple tap. Additionally, the system supports remote trunk access and enables digital key sharing through Samsung Wallet, making it suitable for multiple drivers or temporary users, such as valet services.
It is important to note that the digital key service is only available for vehicles running ID. software version 6.0.1, produced on or after April 27, 2026. Volkswagen has stressed that this software version is a prerequisite for the digital key functionality, and there is currently no information regarding upgrade options for older models.
Multi-Layered Protection with Samsung Knox; Lost Phones Can Be Remotely Deactivated
To ensure the security of the digital key, Samsung employs its Samsung Knox security platform, providing multiple layers of protection to prevent unauthorized access. If a phone is lost, owners can remotely manage or remove the digital key using Samsung Find, reducing potential risks. Furthermore, Samsung Wallet integrates additional digital documents such as credit/debit cards, ID cards, and boarding passes, enhancing the convenience of mobile devices.
The digital key service is now available in 38 European countries and regions, including Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, the Canary Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Volkswagen has not yet announced whether the digital key service will expand to the U.S. market, stating only that it will continue to evaluate global market demand. There is also speculation about whether Volkswagen will support Apple Wallet’s car key feature in future models, but the company has not confirmed any such plans.
