Toyota Brings Apple Automobile Key To The 2026 RAV4, With Lexus Assist Anticipated Later

Toyota has formally introduced Apple Automobile Key to the 2026 RAV4, with Lexus set to comply with later by way of the 2026 Lexus ES and Toyota’s new-generation Digital Key system. The characteristic lets drivers lock, unlock, and begin supported autos from an iPhone or Apple Watch, but it surely comes with a free one-year trial after which requires Toyota’s Remote Connect subscription at $15 per 30 days.

Toyota says the brand new Digital Secret is managed contained in the telephone’s native pockets app, together with Apple Pockets, and may also be shared with as much as 5 extra drivers. For Apple customers, the compatibility requirement is an iPhone 11 or newer, or an Apple Watch Sequence 6 or newer; Toyota additionally says some Google and Samsung units will work, although it didn’t specify which of them.

The rollout is tied to Toyota’s newest Audio Multimedia system with enhanced Digital Key help. Meaning the 2026 RAV4 is the primary Toyota mannequin to achieve Apple Automobile Key integration, whereas different 2026 Toyota fashions such because the Camry, Grand Highlander, Prius, Tacoma, Crown, and Crown Signia nonetheless depend on Toyota App-based Digital Key entry somewhat than full pockets integration.

On the Lexus aspect, the 2026 Lexus ES is predicted to be the primary mannequin to obtain the upgraded Digital Key performance later this 12 months. Individually, MacRumors not too long ago reported code references suggesting Apple can be making ready broader Apple Automobile Key help for Lexus autos, which inserts with Toyota’s beforehand confirmed rollout plans.

This marks Toyota’s first step into Apple’s digital automotive key ecosystem, which has already been adopted by greater than 30 automakers. The transfer brings Toyota and Lexus nearer to opponents resembling BMW, Genesis, Kia, Hyundai, Lotus, Mercedes, and Volvo in providing phone-based car entry.

Filed in Apple >Transportation. Learn extra about Apple, Cars, Lexus and Toyota.