General Motors is introducing digital keys on select 2026 and 2027 Cadillac EVs, with more GM models to follow. Owners add a version of the vehicle’s key to the wallet on a compatible iPhone, Apple Watch, Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy, then use the device to unlock and drive the car.
The car unlocks as the owner approaches and locks when they walk away, without taking the phone out. From the wallet, users can also open the trunk and adjust the climate controls before getting in. A key can be shared with up to seven additional devices through AirDrop, Messages, WhatsApp and similar channels.
Security and Setup
GM’s system uses ultra-wideband technology for encrypted, proximity-based authentication, with Bluetooth handling the connected controls. The key sits in Apple Wallet, Google Wallet or Samsung Wallet, the same secure storage used for payment cards, and follows the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) standard.
Account owners can remove access at any time from the vehicle or the wallet, and if a device is lost or stolen, a call to OnStar deactivates the key right away. To set one up, owners sign in to the vehicle’s mobile app, sit in the OnStar-connected car with the physical fob nearby, and follow the prompts to add the key to their wallet of choice.
Eligible Vehicles and Timing
The first phase runs from September through October and covers the 2025-2027 LYRIQ, 2026-2027 OPTIQ and 2027 VISTIQ.
In December, support widens to the 2026-2027 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, the 2026-2027 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, and the 2027 Escalade, Escalade IQ and IQL, and CELESTIQ. Further GM models will follow, and owners will see a notice under “What’s New” in the vehicle app when the feature becomes available. GM says the ultra-wideband hardware is the groundwork for features such as automatic adjustment of vehicle settings as a driver approaches.
Compatible Devices
On the Apple side, the key works with the iPhone 11 or newer, Apple Watch Series 6 or newer, and Apple Watch Ultra.
Supported Google devices run from the Pixel 6 Pro through the Pixel 10 Pro, Pro XL and Pro Fold lines, including the Pixel Fold. Samsung support covers the Galaxy S21+ 5G or newer, the Galaxy Note20 or newer, and the Galaxy Z Fold and Z TriFold models. GM points owners to the Apple, Google and Samsung support pages for the current compatibility list.