Rivian’s software chief Wassym Bensaid confirmed that the .46 OTA update brings true Digital Key support to the second-generation R1S and R1T. The feature arrives later this month and gives owners a faster, more reliable way to unlock and start their vehicles. The focus stays on proper system-level tools instead of the older Bluetooth method.
You will soon unlock your Rivian with your iPhone or Apple Watch through Apple Wallet. Bensaid explained that UWB handles precise proximity, while NFC support keeps the key working for up to five hours even if your phone runs out of battery. This shift marks a clear move toward the same secure approach used by other modern digital car keys.
Rivian also plans to double digital key slots from four to eight. Because of that change, you can share access with more friends or family without juggling devices or deleting older keys. The update also lets you send a Digital Key through a simple text message, making quick access much easier.
Changes With This Update
The .46 update expands support to Google and Samsung digital wallets, creating a consistent experience across platforms. This brings Rivian’s Gen 2 models in line with native OS-level digital key standards. First-generation R1T and R1S owners relied on the Rivian app over Bluetooth, so they never received Apple Wallet integration, UWB accuracy, or Power Reserve unlock after a dead battery.
With the new hardware modules inside Gen 2 vehicles, Rivian now delivers a proper system-level key that works through Apple Wallet or other supported wallets. You gain precise UWB detection, text-based sharing, and reliable NFC unlocking even when your phone shuts down.
These changes give Rivian owners a smoother, more predictable way to access their vehicles, and they finally match what many buyers expect from modern EV platforms.
