Samsung To Issue First Digital Car Keys To Hyundai Model, Can Work Hands-Free
Image via Hyundai
On Thursday, Hyundai announced that it would be partnering with Samsung to implement the electronics giant’s Digital Key technology into its Genesis GV60 cars.
This collaboration will mark the Genesis G60 as the first vehicle to use the Digital Key, announced at the Galaxy S21 Unpacked event earlier in the year.
With this, users can unlock and lock their cars, start the engine, or even personalize settings like mirror position and seat adjustments all with their smartphones. Further, if the car is to be shared or lent for a short period, the user will be able to share this digital key with the option to let it “expire” after a set amount of time for ease of mind.
It has the potential to be totally hands-free, too. As long as the driver has their Samsung phone with them, the car will automatically unlock as they approach it.
However, it’s important to note that these features will only work if the phones are any of the following: Galaxy S21+ or Ultra, Note20 Ultra, Z Fold 2 or 3.
The key is powered by ultra wideband (UWB) technology, which operates using radio waves. These are transmitted at a higher frequency than others like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which brings with it more accurate spatial awareness. But if the phone doesn’t have a UWB chip, it will also work via NFC.
Image via Samsung
It also uses Samsung’s embedded Secure Element (eSE) to ensure that user and car information is encrypted and won’t fall prey to the wrong hands.
“GV60 will set the bar for luxurious electric vehicle representing the electrification of the Genesis brand,” said Albert Biermann, President of R&D at Hyundai, in the press release. “The partnership with Samsung Electronics will strengthen our efforts to provide truly differentiated experiences for our customers to interact with Genesis vehicles.”
Starting at the end of this year, Samsung’s Digital Key will be available both in NFC and UWB with Hyundai’s GV60 initially to drivers in Korea. Upon success, though, you’ll probably see it implemented globally too.
[via Engadget, image via Hyundai]
Also check out these recent news
