Get ready for a game-changer in the world of electric vehicles! Rivian is bringing a new level of convenience to its early adopters with a digital key feature, but there's a catch.
The latest update: Rivian's iPhone app version 3.9 will introduce an Apple Watch companion app, allowing owners of the 2021-2024 R1T and R1S models to control their vehicles remotely. But here's the twist: it's not a full-fledged digital key experience.
The Gen 1 Experience: While Gen 1 owners can lock, unlock, and drive their cars using the Apple Watch, it's not as seamless as the Gen 2 digital key. Gen 1 owners will need to actively use the watch app, unlike the hands-free convenience of Gen 2, where the car unlocks automatically when the driver approaches with their smartphone.
The Cost Factor: To take advantage of this feature, Gen 1 owners will need to invest in an Apple Watch with cellular connectivity, starting at $299. However, for those already sporting a cellular-connected Apple smartwatch, it's a seamless and cost-effective upgrade.
Functionality: The watch app must run in the foreground, and to start driving, the app needs to be open. It also offers additional controls, such as sounding the alarm, setting the charge state, and adjusting the cabin temperature.
The Gen 2 Advantage: In contrast, the Gen 2 R1T and R1S models boast a true digital key experience. Owners can store a digital key in their smartphone's digital wallet, just like a credit card, enabling automatic locking and unlocking based on proximity. And Rivian's digital key is compatible with various devices, including iPhones, Apple Watches, Google Pixels, and Samsung Android phones.
Availability: The new app version is not yet live in the App Store but is expected to drop in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for the update!
And here's a thought: Is the convenience of a digital key worth the potential extra cost for Gen 1 owners? Share your thoughts in the comments, especially if you're an early Rivian adopter considering this upgrade. The debate is open!
