As expected, electric car maker Rivian today launched an app for the Apple Watch, providing R1S and R1T drivers with convenient features on their wrists.
The app lets you choose up to four one-click controls to lock or unlock doors, open or close windows, open the front or rear trunk, sound the car alarm, and more. Additionally, you can rotate the Digital Crown on the Apple Watch to set the car’s cabin temperature and the specific battery charging target in the app.
Rivian will also offer an Add-ons feature for the Apple Watch, allowing you to view your car’s charge level with a quick glance on your watch face.
Rivian recently introduced Car Key support across Apple’s portfolio for its second-generation R1S and R1T vehicles. This feature uses ultra-wideband technology, allowing you to simply approach the car, open the door, and start it, all while having your iPhone in your pocket or bag or an Apple Watch on your wrist. Passive Entry functionality requires iPhone 11 or later (except iPhone SE and iPhone 16e models) or Apple Watch Series 6 or later.
If you have a first-generation R1S or R1T model, the function of the digital key is a little more limited. You can lock or unlock the car with a tap on the “Lock” button in the app. For these models, Rivian says: “With the app open, you’re ready to drive.”
While some reports indicated that the Apple Watch app is already being rolled out, TechCrunch reported that it will not be available until next week. In any case, keep an eye on the App Store for an update to the Rivian app on iPhone, as installing the next version will automatically extend the app to the Apple Watch.
