Polestar 2 OTA Update Brings Digital Key, Remote Functionality

Polestar continues improving its ‘2’ EV by releasing a new over-the-air (OTA) update. The software revision unlocks new beta services, such as the digital key and remote functionality.

Deemed as being “far safer than a traditional key fob”, it does not operate on radio frequency but on an encrypted Bluetooth signal, and this makes it immune to ‘relay attacks’.

The digital key is encrypted within the official Polestar app on the paired device, which does not need to be accessed in order for it to do its job. Instead, the system uses the sensors positioned around the vehicle to detect the owner’s approach, and unlocks the doors, tailgate or charging lock when they are within an arm’s reach. Turning the motor on requires the paired device to be inside the vehicle.

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“The Polestar digital key is one of our most anticipated features, because the convenience of not having to carry a physical key is invaluable”, said Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath. “Being able to use your phone as a key makes sense, especially in an age where our phones take care of most of our daily needs already, and it’s the one device you always carry with you.”

Besides the new digital key, the OTA update brings remote functionality to the Polestar 2. This allows owners to lock and unlock the doors, pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin and check the battery status from their smartphones. Battery pre-heating is also available, as well as an improved wireless smartphone charging pad and various bug fixes. More functions will be added over time, the automaker says.

“The updated Polestar app now brings extra convenience to owning a Polestar 2”, added Ingenlath. “The simple action of being able to pre-heat or cool the cabin remotely is something we know adds huge value to the everyday experience, and we know Polestar 2 owners who have been eagerly awaiting this functionality. Of course, more functionality will be released in the future, and we see great potential for the continued digital experience in Polestar 2.”