Rivian owners now have another way to stay connected to their vehicles. The electric vehicle manufacturer has launched a new Apple Watch app, offering convenient control and monitoring features directly from the wrist. The app, announced on X (formerly Twitter) by Rivian, expands the company’s digital key functionality and provides quick access to essential vehicle controls.
The announcement details a range of capabilities, including the ability to lock and unlock doors, open and close windows, operate the front and rear trunks, and activate the vehicle alarm—all with a single tap. For owners of second-generation R1T and R1S models, the app as well integrates with Apple Wallet’s Digital Key feature, utilizing Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology for precise access.
Digital Key & Apple Watch app are LIVE! ⌚️
Lock/unlock, roll down windows, open frunks & trunks, honk horn—all from your wrist. Plus, leverage the Digital Crown to adjust cabin temp & charge limit. Complications let you check charge level at a glance. https://t.co/Ww9wJq9w9q— Rivian (@Rivian) February 20, 2026
Expanding Vehicle Control to Your Wrist
Beyond basic controls, the Rivian Apple Watch app allows users to fine-tune vehicle settings using the Digital Crown. Rotating the crown adjusts the cabin temperature and sets the battery charge limit directly within the app. This level of integration offers a streamlined experience for managing vehicle comfort and energy consumption. The app also features complications, allowing owners to quickly glance at their vehicle’s current charge level directly from the watch face. This is particularly useful for those who rely on public charging stations or want to monitor their vehicle’s energy status throughout the day.
The launch of the Apple Watch app builds on Rivian’s existing digital key functionality. Previously, Rivian offered a digital key accessible through their mobile app via Bluetooth. However, the integration with Apple Wallet and UWB technology, as highlighted in a report from 9to5Mac, provides a more seamless and secure experience. The Digital Key feature also extends beyond Apple devices, with full support now available for Google and Samsung digital wallets with the .46 OTA update.
Digital Key Enhancements for All Rivian Owners
The .46 OTA update, which enables the Apple Wallet integration, also brings other improvements to the digital key system. Rivian has doubled the maximum number of digital keys per vehicle from four to eight, making it easier for families and friends to share access. The update allows users to send a digital key via text message, granting temporary access to others without the need for physical key exchange. A key benefit of the system is its ability to unlock the vehicle even with a dead phone battery, utilizing Power Reserve on compatible iPhones for up to five hours.
According to Rivian’s support documentation, to use the Rivian Digital Key, owners need a 2025 or newer Rivian vehicle with software version 2025.46 or later, and the Rivian app version 3.8.0 or later. Compatible devices require iOS 18.5 or newer, or Android 15 or newer.
What This Means for Rivian Drivers
The introduction of the Apple Watch app and the expanded Digital Key features represent a continued effort by Rivian to enhance the ownership experience through technology. By integrating seamlessly with popular devices like the Apple Watch and expanding wallet compatibility, Rivian is making it more convenient and secure for owners to interact with their vehicles. The ability to control key functions from the wrist, coupled with the peace of mind offered by the dead-phone unlock feature, adds a layer of practicality and convenience for Rivian drivers.
Rivian has not yet announced any further planned integrations with other wearable devices, but the company continues to roll out over-the-air software updates that add new features and improve existing functionality. Owners can expect continued enhancements to the digital experience as Rivian evolves its technology platform.
Rivian owners can find more information and tutorials on the Digital Key features and the Apple Watch app on the official Rivian support website.
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