The digital key is stored in the app for Android and iOS and communicates with the car via the Bluetooth interface.

According to Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath, the digital vehicle key was one of the most anticipated features by customers, which will initially be implemented as a beta with the current update. The update to version P2116.5 will be distributed by Polestar wirelessly (OTA) and in batches to the first Polestar 2 with immediate effect. Vehicles that are currently in the workshop should have the update installed automatically.

After installation, customers can store the digital key within the apps for Android and iOS. The manufacturer relies on a total of 18 Bluetooth sensors in the Polestar 2 to support accuracy, secure authentication and user-friendliness when opening and starting the vehicle. The sensors should recognize how far away the user is from the vehicle and enable opening or activation of the doors, the tailgate or the loading flap with increased accuracy and safety from an arm's length away. The vehicle can only be started when the paired smartphone is in the car.

Polestar explains that the digital key is stored encrypted in the Polestar app on the paired smartphone and, after extensive tests, is considered to be far more secure than a conventional vehicle key. The digital key is also resistant to so-called relay attacks, as it does not work with a specific radiofrequency. The encrypted Bluetooth signal is completely dependent on the connected smartphone being within the physical range of the sensors.

The OTA update also unlocks additional beta features in the app. This includes information on the battery status, remote control of the air conditioning system and remote locking and unlocking.

Release notes for software update P2116.5:

- Polestar Digital Key: Use of a telephone as a stand-alone additional key for the Polestar 2

- Polestar ID now included in the setup wizard

- Fix for wireless charging of the Apple iPhone 12

- Stability improvements in Bluetooth media streaming

- Stabilization for the battery control software

- Improved battery pre-heating during AC charging to improve overall efficiency and regenerative braking efficiency when the charge limit is set to 90-100%.