Replacing Car Keys with 'Galaxy Z Fold3'... Applied to Genesis GV60

[Asia Economy Reporter Seulgina Cho] Samsung Electronics' latest foldable phone, the 'Galaxy Z Fold3,' can now be used as a digital key for Genesis's new electric vehicle, the 'GV60.'

On the 30th, Samsung Electronics announced that it has applied its ultra-wideband (UWB) technology-based digital key service to the Genesis GV60 for the first time. As a result, users of Galaxy smartphones that support UWB, such as the Z Fold3, can lock or unlock the GV60 vehicle doors without physically touching the car door when approaching the vehicle. Additionally, it is possible to share the car key with friends or family members using the 'Samsung Pass' application on Galaxy smartphones.

Ultra-wideband technology utilizes high-frequency bands to enable precise distance measurement down to the centimeter level and supports directional sensing. The contactless operation means users do not need to search through pockets or bags to find their car keys. Doors can be opened and the engine started without pressing any buttons. It also supports personalized settings such as seat and mirror position adjustments. Samsung Electronics explained that by using industry-leading security chipsets and ultra-wideband technology, it protects users' sensitive information and reduces potential hacking risks.

Smartphones supporting the digital key include five models besides the Z Fold3: 'Galaxy S21+ and S21 Ultra,' 'Galaxy Note20 Ultra,' and 'Galaxy Z Fold2.' A software update is scheduled within the year. Furthermore, digital keys using NFC technology are available on devices running Android OS 11 or higher, such as the 'Galaxy S20,' 'Galaxy Note20,' and 'Galaxy Z Flip3.'

Notae-moon Roh, President of Samsung Electronics' Mobile Communications Business, said, "Through collaboration with Genesis, we have been able to introduce a mobile experience that makes people's daily lives more convenient. Moving forward, we will continue to focus on developing cutting-edge mobile technologies like ultra-wideband and work with trusted ecosystem partners to provide new experiences to more people."

Albert Biermann, President of Hyundai Motor Group's Research and Development Division, expressed expectations, saying, "Through cooperation with Samsung Electronics, we will be able to offer a more differentiated electric vehicle experience where people and vehicles can communicate."

Earlier, at the Galaxy Unpacked event in January, Samsung Electronics announced plans to launch digital key services in collaboration with major global automakers including Genesis, Audi, BMW, and Ford.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.