GM's Developing An Apple Watch App For Locking, Unlocking Car Doors

General Motors is testing an app that will make keys locked in the car a non-issue...at least, if you have an Apple Watch. The auto maker is currently testing an Apple Watch app that lets GM car owners (with compatible models) unlock and lock their cars using the watch, as well as start it remotely. The information was detailed by GM's VP of Strategy Mike Ableson, who spoke at an analysts presentation in Detroit.

The information comes from the Wall Street Journal; no information was provided about how far along GM is in its testing process, nor any timelines for when the app might be available. It would only be available for certain models, however — those with suitable technology. It isn't clear which vehicles will get it.

GM isn't the first auto maker wanting to give Apple Watch owners the ability to control their car from their wrist. Last month, Ford announced that Apple Watch owners could use the wearable to control certain model Ford vehicles from the MyFord Mobile app. The app gives access to a number of systems, including things like charge level, driving range, trip summaries, driving score, and more.

Earlier this week, General Motors introduced its new "Let's Ride NYC" service, a car-sharing program that allows eligible residents at The Ritz in New York City to reserve one of several cars for hourly or daily use. The idea is that owning a car in the city is a pain, and so is getting a taxi at the last minute. Being able to reserve a car is a nice compromise between the two.

SOURCE: Wall Street Journal