Digital Car Keys May Arrive in 2019

A new technology may soon allow drivers to unlock their car doors and start the engine using just a smartphone. The Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), which includes some of the world’s largest tech companies and automakers, has announced the development of a unified standard for digital car keys.

According to a press release, this technology will enable users to unlock and start their vehicles with their smartphones. Additionally, the system will support user identification, making it possible to sell a car or set it up for shared use with others.

Representatives of the consortium say that the unified technological solution is expected to be available in the first quarter of 2019.

The Car Connectivity Consortium is focused on creating global standards and solutions for connecting smartphones and vehicles. Its members include major electronics manufacturers like Apple and Samsung, as well as leading automakers such as Audi, BMW, General Motors, Hyundai, and Volkswagen.