Rivian is gearing up to deliver a major convenience boost to R1T and R1S owners with the launch of its first official Apple Watch companion app. Tied to the upcoming software update 2026.03 and Rivian mobile app version 3.9, the new watch app brings full remote vehicle controls directly to users’ wrists — along with expanded digital key functionality for older Gen 1 models.
Key features include the ability to lock/unlock doors, vent windows, trigger the alarm, adjust cabin climate, and set charging targets, all accessible via quick taps or the Digital Crown. Owners can customize up to four favorite commands for one-tap access to their most-used functions.
A standout addition is support for using the Apple Watch as a standalone digital key on Gen 1 vehicles (2021–2024 models). Previously limited to Gen 2 Rivians (2025+), this extends proximity-based unlocking and starting to earlier vehicles, though Gen 1 users may need the app actively open for key functions (no passive ultra-wideband entry like on newer models). Gen 2 owners retain full passive entry perks when digital key is enabled in Apple Wallet.
The app builds on Rivian’s December 2025 rollout of digital key support via Apple Wallet, leveraging secure Car Connectivity Consortium standards for offline operation and low-power reserve access.
While not yet live in the App Store, the feature awaits the pending app and software updates. Rivian owners with compatible hardware (Apple Watch Series 6 or later) should monitor for the release soon.
This wrist-controlled integration highlights Rivian’s push toward seamless, ecosystem-native experiences — offering Gen 1 owners especially welcome upgrades in convenience and security as EV software continues to evolve. More details are expected from Rivian as rollout nears.
MacDailyNews Note: How to add your car key to Apple Wallet on your iPhone or Apple Watch via Apple Support here.
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Nice but Rivian R2 won’t have CarPlay or Android Auto. While I really like Rivian, I think it is a mistake. Even Tesla is developing a windowed Apple CarPlay for 2026 .