Google has integrated digital home key functionality into Google Wallet, enabling Android users to open smart locks by tapping their phones or simply walking up to them. The feature is presently accessible in public preview within the Google Home app and will expand to all users over the following weeks, as stated by Google.
Features and Compatibility
This development follows similar offerings previously introduced for Apple and Samsung users. Although Google Home already featured basic unlocking capabilities, the new update utilizes the Near Field Communication (NFC) and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) hardware inside smartphones to connect with compatible smart locks. A single digital home key can manage multiple locks, and every household member connected to the identical Google Home account is able to incorporate an individual key into their personal Google Wallet.
Tap to Unlock operates by placing the rear of an NFC-compatible Android device close to the lock reader, omitting the need to unlock the phone first. Meanwhile, Unlock on Approach must be activated manually inside Google Wallet and triggers an automatic door unlock upon detecting the user walking toward it.
Hardware Requirements and Limitations
These upgraded Google Home functions rely on Aliro, which is an open standard created to enable any smartphone to open any smart lock, though compatible hardware remains restricted currently. Supported locks feature the Aqara u400, the Schlage Sense Pro utilizing NFC initially with UWB coming later, and the Nuki Keypad 2 NFC, alongside additional models planned for the future according to Google.
Users must additionally possess a Matter-compatible Google Hub equipped with a Thread Border Router, including the Nest Hub 2nd-generation. Tap to unlock demands NFC-compatible devices operating on Android 9 or newer, while hands-free unlocking functions exclusively on Aliro UWB-compatible Android devices like the Google Pixel 10 Pro lineup and subsequent models. Wear OS smartwatches lack support at launch, though future inclusion remains a possibility given existing features on Apple Watch.
