How to Share Digital Keys in iOS 16 Apple Wallet

With iOS 16, Apple introduced the ability to securely share digital keys stored in the Apple Wallet app—such as car keys, home smart locks, and hotel room keys—directly through Messages and Mail. This guide explains the prerequisites, step-by-step instructions for sharing a digital key, setting security permissions, and revoking access when it is no longer needed.

Requirements for Sharing Digital Keys

Before sharing, ensure you meet the following conditions:

  • An iPhone running iOS 16 or later.
  • A compatible digital key already added to your Apple Wallet (e.g., a supported vehicle, smart lock, or hotel key).
  • An eligible recipient. While iPhone users running iOS 16 or later get the native Wallet experience, select supported digital keys can also be shared with non-Apple devices via standard messaging channels.

How to Share a Key via Messages or Mail

  1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap the digital key you want to share.
  3. Tap the Share button (an icon with an arrow pointing upward, or tap the three dots in the top right corner and select Share Key).
  4. Choose an access level if prompted. Depending on the key type, you can grant options such as full access, restricted driving privileges, or temporary entry.
  5. Select Messages or Mail as your sharing method.
  6. Enter the recipient’s contact information and send the message.

Adding an Activation Code for Extra Security

To prevent unauthorized access if a message is intercepted, iOS allows you to protect shared keys with an activation code:

  • When configuring the share invitation, tap Activation Code.
  • A unique, one-time code will be generated.
  • Send this code to the recipient through a secondary communication channel (such as a phone call or a separate secure messaging service). The recipient must enter this code before the key can be added to their Wallet.

How to Revoke or Manage Shared Keys

You maintain full control over who has access to your digital keys and can revoke permissions at any time:

  1. Open the Wallet app and tap the shared key.
  2. Tap the People icon or scroll down to the Shared With section.
  3. Select the name of the person whose access you want to modify.
  4. Tap Stop Sharing to instantly deactivate their digital key.