Rivian Planning to Launch Apple Watch App

Source: MacRumors

Rivian to Launch Dedicated Apple Watch App

Electric automaker Rivian is preparing to launch a dedicated Apple Watch app that will let owners access and control their vehicles directly from their wrist.

Release Details

• The Apple Watch app is slated for the 2026.03 software update, as noted in release notes posted by RivianTrackr.
• The update corresponds to version 3.9 of the Rivian mobile app, which has not yet appeared on the App Store.

App Features

• Remote access and control of the vehicle from the watch, including:
  • Locking and unlocking doors
  • Venting windows
  • Sounding the alarm
• Use of the Digital Crown to:
  • Set a target state of charge
  • Adjust cabin temperature
• Customizable interface allowing up to four quick‑control shortcuts for the most‑used functions.

Compatibility & Vehicle Generations

• The Apple Watch app extends wrist‑based vehicle access to older Rivian models that cannot use Apple’s built‑in Wallet‑based digital key on their own.
• Rivian began supporting Apple Wallet‑based digital Car Keys in December (see the earlier announcement), enabling newer vehicles to be unlocked and started with an iPhone or Apple Watch without a physical key. This support is limited to second‑generation Rivian models starting with the 2025 model year.
• First‑generation vehicles (produced 2021‑2024) will receive Apple Watch digital key functionality for the first time via the new app. The app must be open for the feature to work on these older models.
• For newer vehicles, the digital key can operate without launching the Apple Watch app, using the Car Key stored in the wallet instead.