Picture walking up to your Volkswagen, phone in hand, and the car recognizing you without a key fob ever leaving your pocket. Sounds like the future? It's here — if you live in Europe and drive a recent Volkswagen EV.
Samsung has rolled out Digital Key support in Samsung Wallet for a slate of Volkswagen models running ID. software version 6.0.1. The list includes the ID. Polo, ID. Cross, ID.3neo, ID.4, ID.5, ID.7, and the ID. Buzz. There’s a catch: only cars produced on or after April 27, 2026 qualify, and they must have the 'Preparation for Digital Key' option package installed.
Once set up, a compatible Samsung Galaxy smartphone can lock, unlock and start the car. Two access modes are available: ultra-wideband (UWB) for hands-free proximity entry, and NFC for tap-to-unlock or tap-to-start. Remote Key Entry also lets you open the trunk from the phone — no fumbling required.
Need to lend the car to a friend or hand over short-term access to a family member? Samsung Wallet lets you share Digital Keys with specific permissions and time limits, so you decide who drives and when. It's convenient. And practical.
Samsung says these Digital Keys meet EAL6+ certification and are stored on-device with Samsung Knox protections. That means advanced defenses against unauthorized access, and if your phone goes missing you can remotely manage or revoke the key through Samsung Find.
This rollout narrows the gap between carmakers and smartphone platforms, but the feature is tied closely to production date, software version and factory options — so not every VW EV will gain access overnight. If your next car purchase rides on the promise of a pocketable key, check the vehicle's build date and option list before you buy.
Ready to trade a metal key for a tap on your screen? The answer will depend on where you live, what you drive, and how much you trust your phone to keep the keys.
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