Samsung Electronics has announced that beginning in July, Galaxy smartphone users will be able to use their Samsung Wallet app to lock, unlock, and start select Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The move marks the latest expansion of Samsung’s digital wallet capabilities and reflects its broader strategy to integrate mobile-based services across the Galaxy ecosystem.
The system uses Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology in combination with the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) Digital Key standard to provide secure and precise vehicle access. Samsung Wallet’s digital car key feature was originally introduced in 2022, with initial support for select BMW and Hyundai vehicles. With the addition of Mercedes-Benz, Samsung strengthens its position in the growing market for phone-based vehicle access.
Expanding Mobile Wallet Capabilities
Woncheol Chai, Executive Vice President and Head of the Digital Wallet Team at Samsung Electronics’ Mobile eXperience Business, highlighted the convenience the new feature will offer Mercedes-Benz drivers. “We’re excited to bring Mercedes-Benz drivers the incredible convenience that comes with Samsung Digital Key access,” he said. “Our collaboration with Mercedes-Benz advances our vision of providing effortless access to tech-enabled experiences across the Galaxy ecosystem.”
The certified Digital Key will be compatible with multiple access scenarios, including proximity unlocking, push-button ignition, and secure remote control functions, all through Samsung Wallet. The platform’s security will be underpinned by Samsung Knox, a government-grade security architecture that protects both credential storage and transmission.
Part of a Larger Digital Identity Push
The announcement builds on Samsung’s recent efforts to expand Wallet functionality beyond payments and transit. In the digital identity space, Samsung Wallet now supports mobile driver’s licenses in several U.S. states. West Virginia integrated its mobile ID in Samsung Wallet in February 2025, while Colorado’s support has been live since late 2024. Both states are included in the Transportation Security Administration’s list of jurisdictions where digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints.
Stefan Blossey, Director of Body/Comfort-E/E, UI Components at Mercedes-Benz AG, emphasized the luxury brand’s focus on connected services. “Bringing convenience and luxury to our customers is our top priority as we strive to bring them the best vehicle experience possible,” he said. “Samsung Digital Key allows Mercedes-Benz to continue offering our customers convenient access and connectivity to their vehicles.”
Samsung’s expanding ecosystem signals a shift in how consumers interact with vehicles. With the Mercedes-Benz integration, Samsung Wallet aims to further reduce reliance on physical keys while maintaining high standards of security and user experience.
Sources: Korea Times, Samsung Newsroom Global
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By the ID Tech Editorial Team
