Overview
- Rivian’s 2026.03 release notes confirm a dedicated Apple Watch app, as reported by RivianTrackr and corroborated by 9to5Mac and AppleInsider.
- Availability depends on the Rivian iPhone app updating to version 3.9, which is not yet on the App Store and will add the Watch app automatically once released.
- The Watch app enables wrist-based controls for locking and unlocking, venting windows, sounding the alarm, adjusting cabin temperature, and setting a charging target.
- Gen 1 R1T and R1S models from 2021–2024 gain watch-based key functionality that requires the app to be foregrounded to act as a key and open to start driving.
- Gen 2 vehicles already use Apple Wallet car keys, and their release notes indicate no need to launch the Watch app for key operations.