Rivian Launches Apple Watch App With Lock, Climate, and Charging Controls

Rivian has officially launched a native app for the Apple Watch, giving owners direct control of their vehicles from their wrists and making it possible to leave an iPhone behind. The new companion app arrives as part of the latest mobile software update and introduces a suite of remote control features built specifically for standalone use.



The interface centers on quick actions, letting users lock or unlock doors, vent windows, or sound the alarm with a tap. It also takes advantage of the Apple Watch hardware, using the Digital Crown to set a target state of charge or adjust cabin temperature. Drivers can customize the layout by pinning up to four quick controls for immediate access to their most-used features.


Vehicle access differs slightly by hardware generation. Gen 1 drivers can lock or unlock the vehicle from the watch and, with the app open, drive without pulling out their phone. Gen 2 customers benefit from passive entry once their digital key is set up, allowing the vehicle to unlock automatically as they approach.



Rivian says the app mirrors the design language of its iPhone app and in-vehicle interface. Vehicle color and configuration are visualized on the watch, and iconography for Climate, Energy, and Gear Guard remains consistent. Users can also add glanceable battery status as a complication on their watch face. The Gear Guard yeti even appears on the small screen.



The launch continues Rivian's strategy of building its own proprietary software stack rather than adopting Apple's in-car interface. CEO RJ Scaringe has previously described CarPlay as a "life raft" for automakers that surrender the user experience to a third party. At the same time, the company has expanded support for other parts of the Apple ecosystem, including Apple Car Key and native Apple Music integration.

Rivian says the Apple Watch app will continue to evolve with additional features in future updates.