Hyundai’s Digital Key 2 is a Significant Upgrade

The Hyundai Digital Key system allows users to replace their Hyundai car keys with the Digital Key app on their smartphone. Users could lock, unlock, and even start their car without a key. This is accomplished without even opening the  Hyundai app on the phone. Just having it on the phone within the Hyundai Owner’s app and the phone on your person was enough for the car to respond. The system also allowed an owner to extend Digital Key ability to a small set of trusted friends and family members. Hyundai was the first in the industry to have this kind of capability, but there was one weakness: 58% of smartphone users couldn’t use it.

Compatible with iPhone, Android, and Pixel Phones

58% represents the iPhone’s market share in the US, and when it first came out, Digital Key was compatible with Android phones only. Digital Key 2 changes that and is now compatible with both iOS and Android smartphone operating system (OS) platforms, including Google Pixel devices. In addition, the owner can share their Digital Key with users with phones with different operating systems.

“We were the first in the automotive industry to offer Apple and Samsung’s contactless Digital Key 2 feature when we launched it on the Genesis GV60,” said Hyung Ki Ahn, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Motor Group’s Electronics Development Center. “Through active collaboration with our partners in the smartphone industry, we will continue to enhance customer experience and security around car connectivity.”

So when you see “Digital Key 2”, this is not just an upgrade of functionality that probably didn’t apply to you. It now means that an owner of a Hyundai with the system, a registered BlueLink account, and a reasonably modern smartphone can download the Hyundai mobile app and set up the system for use. 

Available on New Hyundai Models and Upgradable for Older Models

All new Hyundai models with Digital Key in their features set will transition to Digital Key 2. Digital Key 2 is now found on the 2024 Kona and 2024 Palisade. Just as important, older Digital Key-equipped models can utilize this expanded capability with a software update. Cross-platform sharing will initially be available for compatible Apple iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel smartphones, with other models to follow.

This is just another example of how Hyundai is producing some of the most technically savvy models in the industry. Visit Rairdon’s Hyundai of Bellingham and see what the advanced technology of Hyundai models can do for you.