Rivian brings Apple Watch to cars, Owners skip phones for easy control
Rivian owners can soon use their Apple Watch instead of their phones to control their cars. This fits Rivian’s fun-loving tech fans who love the outdoors. The company said on Thursday that a new Watch app comes next week. It comes with a big update to the Rivian phone app.
The Watch app does simple jobs fast. Lock or unlock doors with one tap. Open windows a bit for fresh air. Set off the car alarm if you need to. Twist the Watch’s round button to pick battery charge or inside temp. Choose your top four controls. Use them for cold mornings or checking the power on a walk.
The Rivian Apple Watch app is officially here! Control your Rivian from your wrist, customize your quick actions and stay connected wherever you go.
Learn more: https://t.co/A3IeRkDDv0 pic.twitter.com/MwZoTAwF3e— Rivian (@Rivian) February 19, 2026
Not every Rivian gets all features right away. Old first-gen R1T trucks and R1S SUVs need you to open the app and tap to lock or unlock. No auto-open. New second-gen R1 cars unlock when you walk near. Set up a digital key first. Rivian adds features step by step for new cars first.
The Watch app works with a new car software update from Thursday. It makes the car easier and better to use. “Kneel mode” makes the car sit one inch lower. Good for putting in bags or helping people get in. Change drive settings without turning off safety helpers. Those stay on, like auto speed control. In cold weather, the battery screen turns blue. It shows the power used to warm the car. Plan your drive better.
Public reactions on(X) Twitter show excitement along with requests for more features.
One user thanked the company and asked whether CarPlay Ultra might be added next, showing interest in deeper integration with Apple’s in-car system.
Another user reacted with strong enthusiasm, using slang to express excitement about the announcement.
Another user tagged Rivian and asked if Wear OS will be supported. They said they want to use their Pixel Watch. This shows they want the car to work better with Android smartwatches and more devices.
Rivian cares a lot about software. It’s a big part of their business, not just cars. In 2024, they joined forces with Volkswagen. The deal is worth up to $5.8 billion until 2027. VW pays when goals are met. Soon, VW cars like Audi or Porsche will use Rivian tech. This proves Rivian’s skills work well, even as EV sales slow. Owners get free updates over the air. Cars stay new, like Tesla does, but tougher for rough roads.
The timing is perfect. Winter hits North America hard. New cold tools fix real problems for EV drivers. Apple Watch links to phones that many use for fitness. Now it checks your Rivian, too. Rivian beats Tesla’s phone keys and Ford trucks. It fits campers, skiers, and tech lovers.
