In the 2024.2.3 version of the software for iPhones, the Tesla app now supports ultra wideband (UWB). It was discovered by Not a Tesla App and offers the advantage of being more dependable and secure than Bluetooth when using phones as digital keys since UWB’s precise monitoring informs the vehicle of the key’s location and guards against replay spoofing attacks.
According to the story, in the event that two persons enter the automobile with phone keys, it even comes down to determining which user is on the driver’s side. This same kind of pinpoint monitoring enables you to locate Apple‘s AirTags with accuracy, even if their linked object gets lost between your couch’s cushions.
The change isn’t available for Android users yet, but some recent Pixel and Galaxy phones include UWB chips, so support could come to them eventually.
After downloading the update, users should be prompted to “Upgrade Your Phone Key,” followed by a request to give the app access to Nearby Interactions, an iOS setting that opens up the iPhone’s U1 chip to the app. That can be found under Settings > Privacy & Security > Nearby Interactions.
According to Not a Tesla App, only the newest Model 3 and 2023 Model X support the feature, while the newer Model X and S and Cybertruck should get it down the line. All iPhones from the 11 onward come with UWB, excluding SE models.
