Enabling UWB on Android A Must-Have

Unlocking Your Car with Your Phone: The Future is Here with UWB

Have you ever imagined being able to unlock your car using your phone? It might sound like something from a sci-fi movie, but thanks to Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, this futuristic capability is now a reality. UWB is a short-range wireless communication protocol that tracks the location of objects with incredible precision, measuring the time it takes for radio pulses to travel between devices. Initially designed for data transfer, UWB’s ability to accurately track positioning has found exciting applications in various fields.

Among the most prominent uses of UWB technology is Apple’s AirTags. This small device allows users to track and locate their valuables, such as keys, wallets, or bags, using UWB technology. But UWB’s potential goes beyond tracking personal belongings. The automotive industry, including companies like BMW, Audi, Ford, and Hyundai, envisions a future where UWB-equipped devices serve as digital keys for unlocking cars. Similarly, keyless entry for homes, logistics and manufacturing operations, sports, and asset tracking are all areas where UWB can make a significant impact.

Both iOS and Android devices have UWB capabilities, but the list of phones that currently support UWB is surprisingly short. Nevertheless, if you are the owner of an iPhone 11, 12, 13, or 14, an Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, or Ultra, a Google Pixel 6 Pro or 7 Pro, a Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy S21, Galaxy S22, Galaxy S23, Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Fold 4, or a Xiaomi Mix 4, you can enjoy the benefits of UWB technology. However, it’s important to note that not all car models are compatible with UWB yet. So, while my trusty Mini Cooper is too old for UWB, my wife’s car supports the technology.

The exciting news is that UWB is gaining popularity, and as the technology continues to advance, we can expect more cars and devices to support it. The accurate positioning capabilities of UWB open up a world of possibilities for its applications. Imagine a future where your car recognizes your UWB-enabled device as you approach, automatically unlocking itself. Such a feature could drastically change the dynamic of thrilling movies and TV series, putting an end to scenes where the hero struggles to unlock their car before the villain strikes.

However, even if you have a UWB-compatible phone, it’s essential to note that the full functionality of UWB may not be available yet. For example, although UWB is supported on the Samsung S21, it may not appear in the Settings app due to limited roll-out to specific models. So, if you don’t see the UWB option available on your phone, keep an eye out for future updates that may activate this feature.

In terms of range, UWB technology can cover distances ranging from 30 to 600 feet (10-200 meters) while maintaining an accuracy of 0.1 to 0.5 meters. This impressive range, combined with its high accuracy, makes UWB an ideal technology for various applications.

Now, let’s dive into how you can enable UWB on your Android device:

How to Enable UWB on Android

To enable UWB on your Android device, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Open Settings – Locate and tap the Settings icon in your app drawer to open the Settings app.

Step 2: Access Connection Preferences – Within the Settings app, navigate to “Connected Devices” and select “Connection Preferences.”

Step 3: Enable UWB – Scroll down to the bottom of the Connection Preferences page, where you will find the UWB entry. Toggle the ON/OFF slider to the ON position to enable UWB.

At this point, UWB is now enabled on your Android device. If your car supports UWB technology, you should be able to set it up to automatically unlock as you approach the vehicle. However, please note that the process of linking your phone and car together may vary depending on the car manufacturer. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure a smooth setup.

While UWB technology is still in the early stages of adoption, its potential to revolutionize the way we interact with our devices and surroundings is immense. As UWB becomes more prevalent, we can expect to see it integrated into a wide range of applications and industries. So, keep an eye out for the advancements in UWB technology, as it has the potential to reshape our digital world in unexpected and exciting ways.

Now, go out there and embrace this futuristic technology that grants you the power to unlock your car with just a tap of your phone!

Enabling UWB on Android A Must-Have