Polestar 3Image Credit: Polestar
Owners of a Polestar 3 electric SUV and either an Apple Watch or iPhone will now be able to lock, unlock, and even start their cars without need for a physical key.
Swedish electric automaker Polestar rolled out the latest over-the-air (OTA) update for its Polestar 3 last week, which included a range of new features in line with the company’s promise to “comprehensively update” the electric SUV throughout its entire lifecycle.
Since the first Polestar 3 was delivered to customers in June 2024, the company has rolled out nine software updates – and over 30 in total across its entire three-car range since the launch of the Polestar 2 in 2020.
Headlining the latest software update is the ability to add the Polestar 3’s car keys to the Apple Wallet on compatible Apple devices, meaning that drivers will be able to automatically unlock or lock their car and start the car simply by having their iPhone in their pocket or their Apple Watch on their wrist.
Owners will need an iPhone 11 or later with the latest version of iOS, or the Apple Watch Series 6 or later with the latest version of watchOS.
Polestar 3 owners will also be able to share their car keys in Apple Wallet with up to 5 other users through Messages, Mail, AirDrop, WhatsApp, and more, all while retaining the ability to decide whether these additional users can gain access to the vehicle.
And, in case your iPhone or Apple Watch needs to be charged, Apple’s Power Reserve will ensure users can still utilise their keys in Apple Wallet.
“At Polestar, we are committed to delivering a premium experience, and that includes our personal relationship with our customers – they asked for car keys in Apple Wallet, and so we delivered,” said Michael Lohscheller, Polestar CEO.
“The convenience of using your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock and start your car, and easily share access to the vehicle with others, shouldn’t be underestimated.”
Similar Apple Wallet support for owners of the Polestar 4 is also expected to drop soon.
Android users have not been left out, either, with Samsung or Google Pixel devices also able to work as the primary digital key.
A range of other software improvements were also included, including automatic wiper activation when selecting gear, rear view mirror auto dimming, and improvements across a range of car functions.
The full list of software updates can be found here.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.
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