The days of old-school metal ignition keys might be numbered, but BMW is moving beyond remote keyfobs as well. Owners who have certain Android-powered smartphones can now use the company's Digital Key Plus app, turning the phone into a fully integrated vehicle key on compatible BMW vehicles.
By fully integrated, BMW means everything the normal key would do such as locking/unlocking the doors, starting the engine, and more. Beyond that, BMW explains that Digital Key Plus offers additional functionality by using ultra-wideband tech (UWB) that gives a very localized radio signal with better security at close range. The system was fine-tuned with Google and other partners and according to BMW, the risk of intercepting or jamming the signal is "virtually eliminated."
