Toyota is starting to introduce Apple’s secure digital car key tech to its range, starting with the US-spec 2026 RAV4.
Toyota has joined the likes of BMW, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo with support for ‘digital key’ access.
Tech site, MacRumours, reports that the keyless access system will be rolled out on the 2026 RAV4 in the United States.
Digital key allows users to add a secure digital key to their Apple Wallet.
By using a device’s ultra-wideband (UWB) transmitter, users will be able to use a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch as their car key, leaving the device in their pocket or on their wrist, and unlocking the car on approach.
UWB also allows a phone with a flat battery to retain digital key functionality, preventing lockout or stranding if an owner's phone runs flat.
The system will replace the digital key Toyota USA currently offers, which is part of Toyota’s Remote Connect package in that market, but will still require a subscription to connected services for access.
The information surrounding the rollout comes from a Reddit user who claims the digital key system is active on their new RAV4.
Toyota confirmed with US publication CarScoops, that the new tech had been quietly introduced.
“Digital Key is now managed within a compatible smart device’s native digital wallet app (such as Apple, Google or Samsung wallet) and allows customers to lock, unlock, start, and operate supported Toyota or Lexus vehicles,” a spokesperson said.
“Customers can also adjust Digital Key sharing permissions (with up to five additional drivers) directly through their digital wallet,”
Authentication and security are handled on-device, using the respective manufacturer’s available verification measures, with settings and verification able to be adjusted by the user.
While the technology itself is not new, it marks the first appearance of digital key outside of Toyota’s own apps, with the 2026 Lexus ES range tipped to be the next model with the system.
For now, Digital Key is a part of the latest generation Toyota Audio Multimedia system with enhanced Digital Key offered on North American RAV4s.
Kez Casey migrated from behind spare parts counters to writing about cars over ten years ago. Raised by a family of automotive workers, Kez grew up in workshops and panel shops before making the switch to reviews and road tests for The Motor Report, Drive and CarAdvice.
