GM Begins Rolling Out Apple Wallet Car Keys for Select Cadillac, Chevy, GMC Models

General Motors announced in a late September press release that it has begun rolling out Apple Wallet car key support to select Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC vehicle models. The automaker stated that additional models will receive the digital key capability over time, expanding access to smartphone-based vehicle access across its brand portfolio.

According to MacRumors, which reported on the press release, GM is also supporting Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet. A related press release from Samsung confirmed that this digital key functionality will be available to customers in the United States and Canada, broadening the ecosystem of compatible devices for vehicle access.

Rollout Schedule and Supported Models

GM provided a specific timeline for the expansion of digital key support across its lineup. The initial phase, occurring in September and October 2026, includes the Cadillac Vistiq (2027), Cadillac Optiq (2026–2027), and Cadillac Lyriq (2025–2027). These models represent the earliest adopters of the ultra-wideband-based digital key technology within the GM family.

The second phase of the rollout is scheduled for December 2026. This wave will add support for the Cadillac Escalade (2027), Cadillac Escalade IQ/IQL (2027), Chevrolet Suburban (2026–2027), Chevrolet Tahoe (2026–2027), GMC Yukon (2026–2027), and GMC Yukon XL (2026–2027). Customers will receive a notification in the "What's New" section of their vehicle's mobile app when digital key support becomes available for their specific vehicle.

Technical Requirements and Functionality

Apple Wallet's car key feature allows users to utilize a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch as a vehicle's primary key. GM stated that supported vehicles will automatically unlock as the driver approaches and lock when they walk away. Users can also open the vehicle's trunk and adjust the climate control system directly from the Apple Wallet app interface.

The digital keys rely on ultra-wideband technology for secure, proximity-based authentication, combined with Bluetooth connectivity. Compatible devices include the iPhone 11 or later, excluding the iPhone SE 2, iPhone SE 3, and iPhone 16e. Apple Watch Series 6 or later models are also supported for this functionality.

What should you do?

General Motors outlined a specific process for setting up a digital car key. Customers must first download and sign in to their vehicle's mobile app. Then, while inside an OnStar-connected GM vehicle with the physical key fob nearby, users should follow the prompts on the app to add a digital key to their chosen compatible digital wallet. More details are available in Apple's support documentation.

What to do and how to stay safe: General Motors

• Check the "What's New" section of your GM vehicle's mobile app for notifications regarding digital key availability for your specific model.
• Verify that your iPhone or Apple Watch meets the hardware requirements, ensuring you are not using an excluded model like the iPhone SE 2, SE 3, or iPhone 16e.
• Keep your physical key fob nearby during the initial setup process, as GM requires the fob to be present to add a digital key to your wallet.
• Monitor official announcements from GM and Apple for updates on the rollout schedule, particularly if you own a model slated for the December 2026 phase.

Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

Which iPhone models support GM's digital car key feature?

GM's digital keys work with iPhone 11 or later, excluding the iPhone SE 2, iPhone SE 3, and iPhone 16e, as well as Apple Watch Series 6 or later.

When will Cadillac Escalade owners get Apple Wallet car key support?

According to GM's rollout schedule, Cadillac Escalade (2027), Escalade IQ, and IQL models are scheduled to receive support in December 2026.

Is Samsung Wallet supported for GM vehicles?

Yes, GM announced support for Samsung Wallet alongside Apple and Google Wallet, with a Samsung press release confirming availability in the U.S. and Canada.