What is Digital Key

How does Samsung Digital Key work on Galaxy smartphones?

Discover how Samsung Digital Key uses NFC and UWB technology to replace your car key, supported devices, setup steps, and troubleshooting tips for Genesis, BMW, MINI, and BYD vehicles.

Samsung Digital Key allows you to use your Galaxy smartphone as a digital car key, enabling you to unlock, lock, and start your compatible vehicle using NFC or Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. This feature securely stores your car key information in your phone's Secure Element, ensuring convenience and enhanced security.

1. What is Samsung Digital Key and how does it work?

Samsung Digital Key transforms your Galaxy smartphone into a digital car key, offering seamless functionality such as unlocking, locking, and starting your vehicle. This feature leverages NFC (Near Field Communication) or UWB (Ultra-Wideband) technology to interact with your car, providing a secure and convenient alternative to traditional keys.

- The information is securely stored in your smartphone's integrated Secure Element, ensuring high-level encryption and protection.

- You can easily select and manage your digital keys directly from your Samsung Wallet app.

- Digital Key is currently available in the USA, Republic of Korea, UK, Germany, Spain, France, and Italy, with compatibility varying by car brand and model.

2. Which Samsung Galaxy devices support Digital Key?

Digital Key is compatible with select Galaxy devices running Android 13 or later. Supported models include:

Galaxy S20 series (excluding S20 FE), Note20 series, S21 series (including S21 FE), S22 series, S23 series (including S23 FE), S24 series, Z Flip 5G, Z Flip 3, Z Flip 4, Z Flip 5, Z Flip 6, Z Fold 2, Z Fold 3, Z Fold 4, Z Fold 5, Z Fold 6.

Ensure your device is updated to the latest Android OS and Digital Key app version for optimal functionality.

3. How to set up and use Samsung Digital Key

1. Install the car manufacturer's app or receive a registration message from them.
2. Open the Samsung Wallet app on your Galaxy device.
3. Select "Digital Key" and follow the on-screen instructions to register your car key.
4. Once registered, use NFC or UWB to unlock or lock your car door by placing your phone near the handle.
5. For UWB-enabled vehicles, your car may automatically recognize your phone and allow engine start-up.

4. How to share a Digital Key with another user

As the car owner, you can share your Digital Key with others. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Samsung Wallet app and navigate to your Digital Key.
2. Select "Share Key" and follow the instructions on your car's navigation screen.
3. The recipient must enter an authentication code or use their physical car key to complete the process.
4. Both devices must have the latest Android OS and Digital Key app updates.

- The recipient must have Samsung Wallet set up if it's their first time using the app.

5. Troubleshooting Samsung Digital Key issues

If you encounter issues with Digital Key, try these solutions:

- Ensure your phone's NFC or UWB feature is enabled in Settings.

- Check your phone's network connection during registration, as a stable connection is required.

- If your phone's battery dies, Digital Key remains functional for up to 5 hours, unless security features are enabled.

- If your car doesn't recognize your phone, adjust its placement on the wireless charging pad or near the door handle.

6. Additional things to check

- Verify your Digital Key permissions in Samsung Wallet to ensure it's active.

- Contact your car manufacturer for model-specific guidance on door handle or charging pad locations.

- If your phone is lost, suspend Digital Key usage via Find My Mobile or remotely lock your device.

Related Samsung support topics

- How to update Android OS on Samsung Galaxy devices

- How to use Samsung Wallet for digital keys

- How to troubleshoot NFC and UWB connectivity issues