Good news if you’re a Samsung user rocking a newer GM vehicle: the days of digging through your bag for your car keys are lowkey over. Samsung Wallet has officially added digital key functionality for select 2026 and 2027 Cadillac EVs, including the Lyriq, Optic, and Vistiq.
How the tech actually works
Real talk: this isn't just about tapping your phone. If your device has both ultra-wideband (UWB) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), you get that main character energy where the car senses you’re nearby. It unlocks automatically when you approach and locks up when you walk away. It’s giving seamless, no cap.
Beyond just getting in, you can also start your car and share access with friends or family digitally. If your phone ever goes missing, you can hit the kill switch on the key remotely, which is a major W for security.
What’s the catch?
First, check your hardware. You need a Samsung Galaxy device that supports both UWB and BLE tech. Second, support is currently limited to specific Cadillac models in the US and Canada, though GM says more GMC and Chevy trucks are getting the update this December. It’s also worth noting that this isn’t a Samsung exclusive; GM plans to roll this out to Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, too. If you’re wondering if your ride is eligible, just keep an eye on the “What’s New” section of your vehicle’s mobile app—that’s where the notification will drop when it’s your turn.
Why it matters
We’ve been promised a "digital future" for years, and while this is just a convenience feature, it marks another step toward our phones becoming our literal wallets, passports, and keys all in one. It’s the kind of tech that feels small until you actually use it, then you realize you can never go back.
