Tesla Phone Key brings Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Support

Tesla is now rolling Ultra-wideband (UWB) support for Phone Key. It is a big improvement in accuracy and security while interacting with the vehicle through your mobile device.

This new change has been first spotted with Tesla app version 4.29 and above for iOS devices and later found for Android users. However, it became descriptive with version 2024.2.3 which is rolling out over-the-air (OTA).

Customers who want to upgrade the ultra-wideband phone key can open the Tesla app, choose “Phone Key” then tap on “Upgrade”. After this, follow the on-screen instructions to upgrade the phone key.

You need to keep your iPhone settings for Nearby interactions on for Tesla after enabling the new phone key on iPhone 11 or later with Tesla app version 4.29.5 and above.

Ultra Wideband (UWB)

This technology is a short-range, wireless communication protocol that uses radio waves. Unlike Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, UWB drastically improves both the application possibilities and security levels from similar ratio technologies.

The biggest advantage of UWB lies in its area of precise localization for car keys. Different car makers are enhancing their vehicle connectivity with UWB antennas.

These recognize other UWB devices such as a digital key installed on your phone in your pocket faster and more precisely. For instance, your car will recognize when you’re coming closer and automatically unlock, turn on lights, or even enable user-centric settings.

Other than these, UWB also increases security and puts a barrier to relay attacks even if the keys are in motion while being carried.

In action, the UWB chip measures the distance of a straight line between the car key and the vehicle and prevents the car from starting if the car key isn’t physically within the vehicle. Furthermore, it encrypts the key’s connection so no other can barge into your car key.

(source – Notateslaapp)