Google announced the addition of digital home key functionality to Google Wallet, a feature that has been available to Samsung and Apple users for some time. The capability is now accessible in public preview through the Google Home app, with broader availability expected over the following weeks.
The technology leverages Near Field Communication and Ultra-Wideband capabilities in Android devices to communicate with compatible smart locks. Users can manage multiple locks through a single digital key stored in Google Wallet, and household members linked to the same Google Home account can add the key to their individual wallets.
Two unlock methods are available. Tap to Unlock requires holding an NFC-enabled Android phone near the lock reader without needing to unlock the phone first. Unlock on Approach, which must be manually activated, uses automatic detection to open doors as users approach. Currently supported smart locks include the Aqara u400, Schlage Sense Pro, and Nuki Keypad 2 NFC, with additional options expected in the future.
Several hardware and software requirements apply to the feature. A Matter-enabled Google Hub with Thread Border Router, such as a 2nd-generation Nest Hub, is necessary. Tap to unlock functionality requires NFC-capable Android phones running version 9 or later, while hands-free unlocking is limited to Aliro UWB-compatible devices, including Google Pixel 10 Pro series and above. Wear OS smartwatch support is not available at launch, though Google’s phrasing suggests this could change.
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