Rivian Apple Watch App Lets Owners Control Cars From Wrist Starting February 19, 2026

Rivian electric car owners can now control their vehicles using an Apple Watch app, adding convenience for everyday tasks. This feature is part of the new 2026.03 software update.
By Newsroom | Technology, Automotive |

Rivian has released a new software update that includes a dedicated Apple Watch application. This allows owners of Rivian R1T and R1S electric vehicles to control several functions directly from their wrist. The update also introduces enhancements to existing features, including Sport Mode and Launch Mode.

New Watch Application Provides Keyless Access and Vehicle Management

Rivian, an electric vehicle maker, has launched a new application for the Apple Watch. This app offers owners a way to interact with their vehicles from their wrist. It is part of a broader strategy by Rivian to use software updates to improve vehicle capabilities. The company states that software is a key element of its long-term plans.

The Apple Watch app enables users to perform various tasks, such as:

Rivian adds Apple Watch app to control EVs from your wrist - 1

  • Locking and unlocking vehicle doors.

  • Venting windows.

  • Activating the vehicle's alarm.

  • Adjusting cabin temperature.

  • Setting a target state of charge for charging.

Additionally, the app allows for customization, letting users select up to four frequently used controls for quick access. A digital crown on the watch can be used for fine-tuning settings like charging targets.

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Digital Key Functionality Expanded

For owners of first-generation (Gen 1) Rivian vehicles, the Apple Watch app introduces digital key support. This allows the watch to function as a secure method for accessing the vehicle. Previously, digital key support was enabled for Apple, Google Pixel, and Samsung devices in December.

  • Second-generation (Gen 2) R1 vehicles can use the Apple Watch as a passive digital key. This means the vehicle can unlock automatically as the driver approaches.

  • First-generation (Gen 1) R1 vehicles support tap-to-lock and unlock functionality through the Apple Watch. However, this requires the Rivian app to be actively open on the watch.

Apple began supporting digital car keys on iPhone and Apple Watch in 2020, and many automakers have since adopted this technology.

Rivian adds Apple Watch app to control EVs from your wrist - 2

Software Update Brings Other Vehicle Enhancements

The introduction of the Apple Watch app coincides with a wider vehicle software update, version 2026.03. This update also brings improvements to other vehicle functions:

  • Sport Mode: This mode is now available for all R1S and R1T models, designed to provide quicker acceleration.

  • Launch Mode: This feature has been expanded to include Gen 1 Quad-Motor and both generations of Dual-Motor Performance models.

The software update is being rolled out to both first- and second-generation R1 vehicles, alongside version 3.9 of the Rivian mobile app.

Accessibility and User Experience

The Rivian Apple Watch app is an extension of the existing Rivian iPhone application. Once the iPhone app is updated from the App Store, the Apple Watch app installs automatically.

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  • An Apple Watch complication is also available, allowing users to view the vehicle's charge level directly on their watch face without opening the main app.

  • The developers noted that the app is intended to make short trips and charging stops more convenient, particularly when a smartphone might not be readily accessible.

Strategy and Future Outlook

Rivian's ongoing emphasis on software updates indicates a strategy to differentiate its vehicles through technology and user experience. The company has consistently delivered over-the-air updates to enhance vehicle functionality since its initial launch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What new feature did Rivian add for Apple Watch users on February 19, 2026?
Rivian released a new software update that includes an Apple Watch app. This lets owners of R1T and R1S electric vehicles control several car functions directly from their watch.
Q: How can Rivian owners use the new Apple Watch app starting February 19, 2026?
The app allows users to lock and unlock doors, vent windows, activate the alarm, adjust cabin temperature, and set charging goals. Users can also customize quick access controls for frequently used features.
Q: What is different about the Apple Watch app for first-generation (Gen 1) Rivian vehicles?
For Gen 1 vehicles, the Apple Watch app offers digital key support for tap-to-lock and unlock functions, but the Rivian app must be open on the watch. Gen 2 vehicles can use the watch as a passive digital key that unlocks automatically when the driver approaches.
Q: What other vehicle enhancements came with the Rivian software update 2026.03?
The update also brings Sport Mode to all R1S and R1T models for quicker acceleration. Launch Mode has also been expanded to more Quad-Motor and Dual-Motor Performance models, improving performance for various configurations.