Apple Car Key Support Coming to Lexus Vehicles: What We Know So Far

Apple is preparing to bring its Car Key feature to Lexus vehicles, according to new findings uncovered in backend code.

Reports from MacRumors reveal that references to Lexus have been added to Apple’s Car Key infrastructure, often a strong signal that support is in development. This mirrors earlier discoveries involving Toyota, where similar code hints surfaced before Car Key support officially launched for the 2026 RAV4.

At this stage, Apple and Lexus have not confirmed a release date, leaving the rollout timeline unclear.

Evidence suggests the feature will debut with the upcoming 2026 Lexus ES. According to a February Carscoops report cited by MacRumors, Toyota confirmed in February that the model will introduce an upgraded Digital Key system as part of a new infotainment platform.

MacRumors says Apple’s backend updates likely point to this exact rollout. What remains uncertain is whether other Lexus models or existing vehicles will receive the feature later via software updates.

How Apple car key works

Apple’s Car Key feature allows users to store a digital version of their car key directly in the Wallet app on an iPhone or Apple Watch. Once set up, drivers can lock, unlock, and even start their vehicle without a physical key.

The system uses technologies like NFC and, in some cases, Ultra-Wideband for passive entry. One key advantage is “Express Mode,” which allows access without Face ID or passcode authentication. Another standout feature is power reserve: Apple says the key can continue working for up to 5 hours after an iPhone’s battery dies.

Lexus vs Apple: What changes?

Lexus already offers its own Digital Key system, but there’s a major difference.

Its current solution depends on an active connection to Toyota’s servers and does not integrate with Apple Wallet. Apple’s approach, by contrast, stores the key locally on the device, enabling faster and more reliable access, even offline. This shift could significantly improve convenience for Lexus drivers, especially in low-connectivity scenarios.

The addition of Lexus would mark another milestone in the rapid expansion of Apple’s digital car key ecosystem.

Since launching with BMW in 2020, the feature has steadily gained traction. Today, brands like Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Genesis already support it, with more joining each year.

Industry watchers note that once a carmaker adopts Apple’s system for one model, it often expands across its lineup over time.

Also read: Apple’s encrypted RCS upgrade for iPhone could make messaging with Android users more secure.