Sharing Your BMW Digital Car Key: Is It Possible?

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Can You Share A BMW Digital Car key?

Although BMW’s digital key fob is considered by many as one of the worst car keys ever made, its digital counterpart does come with a few notable benefits. The BMW Digital Key is integrated with BMW’s My BMW App and can be used via iPhone and Android devices. The My BMW app allows the driver to remotely control certain aspects of the car, such as the climate control and door locks, check the car’s charge status, or receive prominent maintenance alerts. It also lets others use the car via its shareable digital key feature.

This means that family members or other trusted drivers can freely use the car without needing a physical key if the owner shares a digital key with them. The owner retains control over when, how, and who can use the vehicle, and thay can revoke access at any time – all through the My BMW app. Here is how to share a BMW Digital Key and what to keep in mind when you do.

How to share a BMW Digital Key?

For iPhone users, the first thing to do is to activate the Digital Key via the BMW Setup Card and the mandatory My BMW app. This can be done either by scanning the QR code on the back of the card or simply by placing the card on the back of the phone. You’ll also need to approve the card, so be sure to hold it to your phone and finish the pairing process with the car. After that’s done, enter the car with a physical key, finalize the setup process within the app or the car’s center screen, and add the Digital Key to your Apple Wallet.

The process is similar for Android users,although it’s worth noting that these features are only available for Android 12 or later. As with the iPhone, start by placing the card at the back of your Android phone and tap the message on the welcome screen in the My BMW App. Follow the instructions within the app to finish linking your BMW to your BMW ID. Lastly, enter the vehicle with the physical key in hand and finalize the activation process through the My BMW App; the digital key should be ready to use.

Once you’ve activated the key, you can share it by opening the Wallet and selecting the appropriate Android or iPhone sharing option. Simply choose a contact with whom you want to share the key, adjust the permissions you want to give, and if necessary, add an activation code for added security. The recipient will then receive an invitation with instructions on how to activate the key on their device and will be free to use the car according to the permissions given.

BMW Digital Key limits and restrictions?

According to BMW, the standard Digital Key feature allows owners to share with up to five friends and family members. The Digital Key Plus upgrades this limit to 18 individuals. The Digital Key is unique to each vehicle, offering an added layer of security.

Can you share your BMW Digital Key with multiple users, and if so, is there a limit to how many?

Understanding BMW Digital Key Technology

BMW’s Digital Key allows you to use your compatible smartphone as a virtual car key, unlocking, starting, and even sharing access to your vehicle. This feature, powered by Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology for enhanced security, is available on select BMW models, including the i4.However, the question of sharing this convenience isn’t always straightforward. The core technology relies on NFC (Near Field Interaction) and, increasingly, UWB for seamless operation.

Can You Actually Share Your BMW Digital Key?

Yes,but the method and extent of sharing depend on your BMW model year and the connected services you have activated. Here’s a breakdown:

BMW ConnectedDrive App: The primary method for managing and sharing your BMW car key is through the BMW ConnectedDrive app.

Key Sharing Functionality: Newer BMW models (typically those produced from late 2021 onwards) offer a dedicated “Key Sharing” feature within the app.This allows you to create and send digital keys to trusted individuals.

Number of Shares: The number of digital keys you can create varies by model and subscription level, but generally, you can share with up to five users.

Revocation: You retain full control and can revoke access to shared keys at any time directly from the app.

How to Share Your Digital Key via the BMW ConnectedDrive App

Here’s a step-by-step guide to sharing your BMW digital key:

1. Open the BMW ConnectedDrive App: Ensure you’re logged in with your BMW ID.
2. navigate to ‘Digital Key’: Locate the “Digital Key” section within the app’s menu.
3. Select ‘Manage Keys’: This will display a list of existing keys and the option to add a new one.
4. Choose ‘Share Key’: Select the option to share a key.
5. Enter Recipient’s Email: Input the email address of the person you want to grant access to.
6. Set Permissions: Define the access level (e.g.,full access,limited access) and validity period for the shared key.
7. Send Invitation: The recipient will receive an email with instructions on how to activate their digital key. They’ll need to download the BMW ConnectedDrive app and follow the prompts.

Smartphone Compatibility: A Critical factor

Not all smartphones are compatible with the BMW Digital Key. Compatibility depends on the phone’s operating system and hardware.

Apple iPhones: iPhones running iOS 14.5 or later with UWB capability (iPhone 11 and newer) are generally compatible.

android Phones: Android phone compatibility is more limited. As of August 2025, Samsung phones are experiencing issues. Reports indicate the Samsung S22 is not functioning as a Digital Key with the i4, with users receiving “device not compatible” messages during setup (Motor-Talk forum, 2025). Other Android devices require NFC and,ideally,UWB support,and compatibility varies by manufacturer and model. Check the BMW website for a current list of compatible Android devices.

Importance of UWB: Ultra-Wideband technology significantly enhances the security and range of the Digital Key, making it more reliable than NFC alone.

Security considerations When Sharing

Sharing your BMW car key introduces potential security risks. Here’s how to mitigate them:

Share with Trusted Individuals Only: Only share your digital key with people you wholly trust.

Set Expiration dates: Utilize the expiration date feature to limit access duration. This is notably useful for temporary access (e.g., valet parking, loaning the car).

Revoke Access Promptly when Needed: If a shared key is lost or if you no longer want someone to have access, revoke it immediately through the app.

Monitor Key Activity: While the app doesn’t offer detailed activity logs, be mindful of who has access and when.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

“Device Not Compatible” Error: This often indicates an incompatible smartphone model or an outdated operating system. Verify compatibility on the BMW website.

Key Activation Problems: Ensure the recipient has a stable internet connection and is following the activation instructions correctly.

connectivity Issues: If the phone fails to unlock or start the car, try restarting both the phone and the vehicle.Ensure Bluetooth and NFC are enabled.

App Updates: Keep the BMW ConnectedDrive app updated to the latest version for optimal performance and security.

Benefits of sharing Your BMW Digital Key

Convenience: easily grant access to family members, friends, or service personnel without physically handing over a traditional key.

Control: Maintain complete control over who has access to your vehicle and for how long.

Security: The Digital Key is encrypted and secure, offering a higher level of security than traditional keys