Rivian is expanding its Apple ecosystem support with a full Apple Watch app that goes beyond digital key access and brings core vehicle controls directly to the wrist. The feature, confirmed through Rivian’s 2026.03 software update release notes surfaced by RivianTrackr, marks a notable step in Rivian’s ongoing effort to modernize its software experience and close feature gaps with rival EV makers.
The rollout builds on Rivian’s December update, which first enabled Apple Watch–based digital car keys through Apple’s Wallet system. That implementation worked only with second-generation Rivian EVs (2025 and later). The newly announced watchOS app expands compatibility and unlocks new controls for both Gen 1 (2021–2024) and Gen 2 vehicles, though digital key support still varies by model generation.
The new app aims to replicate core functions of the Rivian iPhone app
The app is offering features such as locking and unlocking, starting the vehicle, venting windows, sounding the alarm, adjusting cabin temperature, and setting a charging target. Users can also customize up to four quick-access actions on the watch display and can use the Digital Crown to fine-tune temperature and charging levels. Rivian notes that the watch app must be actively open (“foregrounded”) when used as a key for Gen 1 vehicles.
This standalone app gives Rivian owners the kind of convenience Tesla owners received with Tesla’s own Apple Watch app last year. It’s also a meaningful quality-of-life update for drivers who prefer wrist-based access or routinely leave their phones behind. With Apple Watch Ultra and Series models offering cellular connectivity, the ability to access essential vehicle functions from the watch alone is a practical upgrade.
The update also highlights Rivian’s evolving software roadmap
The company still doesn’t support Apple CarPlay – something Tesla also continues to avoid – despite persistent customer demand. Instead, Rivian is gradually embracing Apple’s ecosystem in selective ways, starting with key access and now extending into full remote control. The strategy suggests Rivian is trying to strike a balance: offering convenience features users expect while maintaining its custom in-vehicle UI.
The Apple Watch app will automatically install once users update the Rivian iPhone app to version 3.9, though Rivian has not provided a precise release date. With Gen 2 vehicles already supporting Wallet-based keys and Gen 1 models now able to use the Watch app as a key with the app open, Rivian owners across model years will gain new flexibility.
As the update rolls out, the focus turns to whether Rivian plans deeper Apple integration – particularly CarPlay – which remains one of the most requested features among its user base. For now, the Apple Watch app marks Rivian’s most significant expansion into Apple’s ecosystem yet.
