Rivian R1 Owners Can Now Use Apple Watch for Car Controls and Digital Key Starting February 19, 2026

Rivian R1 owners can now use their Apple Watch to lock, unlock, and start their cars. This new feature is like having a key on your wrist, making access easier than ever.
By Newsroom | Automotive, Technology |

Rivian, the electric vehicle maker, has introduced a new application for the Apple Watch. This app allows owners of Rivian R1T and R1S vehicles to manage several key functions directly from their wrist. The rollout follows recent software updates for both the vehicles and the Rivian mobile app.

This new feature brings added ease for owners, offering access to common vehicle controls and, for certain models, acting as a digital key. The integration aims to provide convenience, especially during short stops or charging sessions where a phone might not be immediately accessible.

Details of the Apple Watch Application

The Rivian Apple Watch app is available as an extension of the existing Rivian iPhone app. Once users update their iPhone app to version 3.9.0, the Apple Watch app will automatically appear on their compatible watch.

Key functions accessible via the watch include:

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  • Locking and unlocking the vehicle doors.

  • Starting the vehicle.

  • Venting the windows.

  • Activating the vehicle's alarm.

  • Adjusting the cabin temperature.

  • Setting a target for battery charging.

Users can navigate these features using the Apple Watch's digital crown and select up to four frequently used controls for quick access.

Rivian rolls out an Apple Watch app with vehicle controls and digital key support - 1

Digital Key Functionality

The implementation of digital key support varies between first-generation (Gen 1) and second-generation (Gen 2) R1 vehicles.

  • Gen 2 Vehicles: These models can use the Apple Watch as a passive digital key. This means the vehicle can unlock automatically as the driver approaches, provided the digital key is set up in Apple Wallet. This feature works with the driver's iPhone or Apple Watch in their pocket or bag.

  • Gen 1 Vehicles: For first-generation models, the Apple Watch can function as a digital key when the Rivian app is actively open on the watch. This allows for tap-to-lock and unlock capabilities.

Rivian had previously enabled digital car key support for Google Pixel and Samsung devices in December. Apple began supporting digital car keys on iPhones and Apple Watches in 2020, with many automakers adopting the technology since then.

Development and Rollout

Word of a dedicated Apple Watch companion app for Rivian began circulating earlier this month. The company has been working on this integration, which is now rolling out to owners.

The Apple Watch app is part of a broader update to Rivian's vehicle software system. The app itself is designed to mirror the most used features of the Rivian iPhone app, offering a streamlined experience.

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Rivian rolls out an Apple Watch app with vehicle controls and digital key support - 2

User Experience and Comparisons

The introduction of this app is seen as Rivian's most significant step into Apple's ecosystem to date. It offers a level of convenience that mirrors features previously available to Tesla owners through their own Apple Watch app.

The app also supports Apple Watch complications, allowing owners to view their vehicle's charge level directly on their watch face.

Expert Analysis

Sources indicate that this Apple Watch integration is the start of Rivian's plans for further expansion of its app's capabilities.

Conclusion

Rivian has now provided its R1T and R1S owners with a new way to interact with their vehicles through the Apple Watch. The app offers a range of remote controls and digital key functionality, with differentiated capabilities for Gen 1 and Gen 2 vehicles. The rollout is tied to the latest versions of the Rivian mobile app (v3.9.0) and vehicle software (v2026.03). This development enhances the convenience and accessibility of Rivian vehicles for Apple users.

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Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What new feature did Rivian release for R1 vehicle owners on February 19, 2026?
Rivian released a new app for the Apple Watch that lets R1T and R1S owners control car functions like locking doors, starting the car, and adjusting the temperature directly from their wrist.
Q: How can Rivian R1 owners use their Apple Watch as a digital car key?
For second-generation (Gen 2) R1 vehicles, the Apple Watch can act as a passive digital key, unlocking the car as you approach. For first-generation (Gen 1) R1 vehicles, the watch can unlock the car when the Rivian app is open on the watch.
Q: What car functions can Rivian R1 owners control with the new Apple Watch app?
Owners can lock and unlock doors, start the vehicle, vent windows, activate the alarm, adjust cabin temperature, and set a battery charging target using the Apple Watch app.
Q: How do Rivian owners get the new Apple Watch app?
Owners need to update their Rivian iPhone app to version 3.9.0. The Apple Watch app will then automatically appear on compatible watches.
Q: Why did Rivian add Apple Watch control to its R1 vehicles?
Rivian added this feature to make it easier and more convenient for owners to access and control their vehicles, especially when their phone might not be readily available.
Q: When was the Rivian Apple Watch app officially launched for R1 vehicles?
The Rivian Apple Watch app was officially launched on February 19, 2026, as part of a wider software update for the vehicles.