Skip advert
Advertisement

Bosch reveals ‘Perfectly Keyless’ digital car key app

New smartphone app called Perfectly Keyless could spell the end for car keys, granting access via a smartphone

Physical car keys could soon be a thing of the past as Bosch has developed a new smartphone-based app designed to replace them.

Called Perfectly Keyless, Bosch says the app carries over all of the functionality of a physical key but is much safer due to the significantly reduced risk of theft and key cloning.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Smartphones could soon replace car keys

Each digital key is unique to a user’s smartphone and connects wirelessly to the car via on-board sensors. The car automatically unlocks once the owner is within two metres of the vehicle and activates predetermined settings such as seat and mirror positioning.

As the key operates using near-field communication (NFC) even if your phone battery runs out the digital key will still function. If the phone carrying the key is lost or stolen it can also be deactivated to avoid vehicle theft.

The main benefit of this technology, Bosch says, is its application for vehicles that have multiple users. Each vehicle user will get a unique digital key removing the need to organize key handovers in the future.  

Bosch will demonstrate the technology at the IAA Commercial Vehicle show in Hannover on 19 September.

Read our guide on avoiding wireless car theft

Skip advert
Advertisement

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: 10k miles a year in Cupra’s Terramar for under £300 a month
Cupra Terramar - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: 10k miles a year in Cupra’s Terramar for under £300 a month

The Cupra Terramar is an appealing family SUV that looks stylish but offers plenty of practicality. It’s our Deal of the Day for July 5
News
5 Jul 2025
New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life
Volvo XC60 facelift - front tracking

New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life

This refreshed Swedish SUV focuses on familiar areas of strength to take on BMW and Audi
Road tests
4 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month
MG ZS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month

The MG ZS is an easy car to like and live with. It’s our Deal of the Day for 3 July
News
3 Jul 2025