Electric vehicle maker Rivian is rolling out Apple Watch integration, allowing owners to control key vehicle functions without needing their smartphones.
As part of an upcoming update to the Rivian mobile app, customers will be able to use their Apple Watch to:
- Lock and unlock doors
- Vent windows
- Trigger the vehicle alarm
- Adjust temperature settings
- Set a target battery charge level using the digital crown
- Customize four quick-access controls
Generational differences
There are some limitations for first-generation Rivian R1T trucks and Rivian R1S SUVs. Owners of these earlier models must manually open the app on their Apple Watch and tap the lock icon to secure or unlock their vehicle.
However, second-generation R1 vehicles support automatic unlocking as the driver approaches — provided a digital key is set up.
Broader software update
The Apple Watch feature is part of a larger vehicle software upgrade focused on performance and accessibility improvements.
New features include:
- Enhanced “kneel mode”, lowering the vehicle an extra inch for easier entry and exit.
- Ability to switch drive modes without disengaging advanced driver assistance systems.
- A cold weather indicator, which adds a blue tint to the battery graphic on the dashboard display to show how much energy is being used to warm the battery pack.
Software as a strategy
While Rivian is known for its electric trucks and SUVs, software has become a major pillar of its business. In 2024, Rivian formed a $5.8 billion technology joint venture with Volkswagen Group, aimed at developing next-generation vehicle software that will power future VW Group models.
The move reinforces Rivian’s position not just as an EV manufacturer, but as a technology partner within the broader automotive industry.
