Rivian has introduced a new Apple Watch app, allowing electric vehicle owners to control their cars without their smartphones, marking a significant enhancement in convenience and accessibility for its users.
The newly launched app enables users to perform various functions with a simple tap on their Apple Watch, including locking and unlocking doors, sounding the alarm, and venting windows. This development is part of Rivian’s ongoing efforts to improve the user experience for its R1S and R1T Gen 2 owners, who can now enjoy a more seamless interaction with their vehicles.
For R1S and R1T Gen 2 owners, the app also supports passive unlock functionality. Once the digital key is set up, the vehicle unlocks automatically as the owner approaches, providing an added layer of convenience. Furthermore, users can adjust the cabin temperature and set a target state of charge by simply turning the Apple Watch’s digital crown. The app allows for the customization of four quick-access controls, giving users the flexibility to tailor their experience according to their preferences. Additionally, users have the option to add a battery status indicator to their watch face, keeping them informed about their vehicle’s status at a glance.
Rivian has indicated that it plans to continue enhancing the Apple Watch app with more features in future updates. This move is part of the company’s broader strategy to leverage digital technologies to improve the ownership experience. Rivian first introduced digital car key support for Apple, Google Pixel, and Samsung devices in December, aligning with the industry trend towards adopting digital car keys. Apple has supported digital car keys on iPhone and Apple Watch since 2020, a standard that many automakers have adopted to offer their customers more convenience and flexibility.
