# Vehicular Smartphone Keys Volvo Will Soon Utilize Digital Keys to Grant Access to Vehicles By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2016-02-19 | Autos Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/digital-keys References: [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/volvo-keyless-access-smartphone/41909/) & [volvocars](http://www.volvocars.com/intl) The smartphone has become an essential component for many consumers, so [Volvo](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/polestar-3) is looking to transform the device into digital keys for new vehicles starting this spring. The new Volvo app will enable users to access their vehicles without needing to reach for keys or even unlock their smartphone. The signal from the device will unlock the vehicle when the driver (or approved driver) comes within proximity. The digital keys technology is hoped by the brand to become an innovative solution to rental vehicles. Rather than having to give keys, the app technology could enable rental companies to grant digital access for renters. The technology would also enable vehicle owners to grant access to friends and family from anywhere in the world. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.6/10 - Popularity: 7% | Activity: 4% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/autos) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Digital Keys:** Unlocking vehicles using smartphone apps, eliminating the need for physical keys. - **Rental Access:** Using digital keys to provide remote access to rental vehicles, eliminating the need for physical keys. - **Remote Access:** Granting access to vehicles from anywhere in the world using smartphone apps, eliminating the need for physical keys. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Automotive:** Automotive industry can implement digital keys to enhance the rental experience and provide remote access solutions. - **Technology:** Technology industry can develop and improve smartphone apps for digital key functionalities. - **Hospitality:** Hospitality industry can use digital keys to streamline the renting process and enhance customer experience. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Cross-Platform Car Key Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-bmw-digital-key.md) - [Smartphone-Like EV Interfaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/polestar-3.md) - [Next-Level Digital Lock Solutions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/proximkey.md) - [Virtual Smartphone Hotel Keys](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/digital-hotel-key.md) - [Smartphone-Centric Smart Locks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/schlage-encode-plus.md) - [Vehicle-Forward Watch Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tesla-apple-watch-app.md) - [Automotive Digital Key Enhancements](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/channel-sounding.md) - [Tactile Vehicle Key Fobs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/car-key-fob.md) - [Streamlined Vehicle Rental Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vehicle-rental-app.md)