With the option "Comfort Access", you can conveniently lock or unlock and start your BMW with the physical key or with the BMW Digital Key on your smartphone or Smartwatch.
Communication with the vehicle is based on different wireless technologies. The physical key communicates with the vehicle on the basis of radio waves in the MHz range. The data transfer with the BMW Digital Key uses the "near field communication" (NFC) mobile standard, while the data transfer with the BMW Digital Key Plus uses "ultra-wideband" (UWB) and Bluetooth®. In the best case scenario, the unlocking or locking function is available via the smartphone or physical key up to a radius of approx. 5 to 9 feet around the side and rear of the vehicle.
The following factors can impair the function or range:
- The battery of the vehicle key is discharged.
- The connection has been interrupted by a transmission tower or other device with a high transmitting power.
- The vehicle key is shielded by a building or metallic object.
- Connection interrupted by mobile phones or other electronic devices located directly next to the vehicle key.
- Wireless transmission interrupted by mobile device charging process, e.g., charging a mobile phone.
- The vehicle key is in direct proximity of the wireless charging tray.
In the case of interference, the vehicle can also be unlocked and locked from the outside with the integrated key. Use the Emergency detection of the vehicle key to turn on drive-ready state.
Please also note the following information when using Comfort Access:
- The performance of the function can be restricted in order to save energy. For example, the physical key can become inactive if it is not moved for a longer period of time.
- When unlocking your BMW by touching the outside door handle, the physical key must not be more than 1.5 meters away from the outside door handle for safety reasons. After locking by touching the outside door handle, it is not possible to unlock the door again for two seconds. This allows you to check whether the vehicle is really locked.
- When using the BMW Digital Key Plus, the vehicle is always locked when you move away from the vehicle with your smartphone. This is also the case if there is another smartphone with BMW Digital Key Plus or a physical key in the vehicle.
- In situations in which you frequently enter and leave the locking/unlocking zone (e.g., when loading or unloading the vehicle), you can deactivate the Comfort Access function both in BMW iDrive and on your smartphone to prevent the vehicle from being locked and unlocked unintentionally. You can also deactivate the Comfort Access function via the smartphone independently of the functionality of the physical key. Locking and unlocking is still possible by touching the outside door handle.
- To start the engine, you need a physical key, a BMW Digital Key or a Key Card in the interior. Key recognition works most reliably in the center console compartments or in the Wireless Charging tray. If the key is placed in locations close to the exterior, such as under the windshield, in the glove compartment or in the cargo area, it may not be recognized as being "in the interior".
Links to watch how-to videos:
- How to Unlock All Doors Using Comfort Access | BMW How-To
- How to Use Digital Key Plus for iPhone in BMW OS8 | BMW How-To
- How to Use Digital Key for Android in BMW OS8 | BMW How-To
