Toyota has officially brought Apple Car Key to the 2026 RAV4, with Lexus set to follow later through the 2026 Lexus ES and Toyota’s new-generation Digital Key system. The feature lets drivers lock, unlock, and start supported vehicles from an iPhone or Apple Watch, but it comes with a free one-year trial and then requires Toyota’s Remote Connect subscription at $15 per month.
Toyota RAV 4 2026 (Image: Toyota)
Toyota says the new Digital Key is managed inside the phone’s native wallet app, including Apple Wallet, and can also be shared with up to five additional drivers. For Apple users, the compatibility requirement is an iPhone 11 or newer, or an Apple Watch Series 6 or newer; Toyota also says some Google and Samsung devices will work, though it did not specify which ones.
The rollout is tied to Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system with enhanced Digital Key support. That means the 2026 RAV4 is the first Toyota model to gain Apple Car Key integration, while other 2026 Toyota models such as the Camry, Grand Highlander, Prius, Tacoma, Crown, and Crown Signia still rely on Toyota App-based Digital Key access rather than full wallet integration.
On the Lexus side, the 2026 Lexus ES is expected to be the first model to receive the upgraded Digital Key functionality later this year. Separately, MacRumors recently reported code references suggesting Apple is also preparing broader Apple Car Key support for Lexus vehicles, which fits with Toyota’s previously confirmed rollout plans.
This marks Toyota’s first step into Apple’s digital car key ecosystem, which has already been adopted by more than 30 automakers. The move brings Toyota and Lexus closer to competitors such as BMW, Genesis, Kia, Hyundai, Lotus, Mercedes, and Volvo in offering phone-based vehicle access.