Google Wallet Adds Digital Home Keys for Android Smart Locks
Google Wallet now lets Android users unlock compatible smart locks by tapping their phones or, on newer handsets, just walking up. The feature is in public preview in the Google Home app and will reach all users over the next several weeks, Google said.
Google Wallet adds digital home keys that let Android users unlock compatible smart locks by tapping their phone on the hardware. The feature is in public preview in the Google Home app now and will reach all users over the next several weeks, Google said in its announcement.
It is Android's answer to Apple. Apple introduced Home Keys in 2021 with iOS 15, storing keys in Apple Wallet so an iPhone or Apple Watch could open a lock. Samsung has offered similar convenience for some time.
Two ways to unlock
Tap to Unlock works by holding the back of an NFC-equipped Android phone near the lock's reader. The phone does not need to be unlocked first.
Unlock on Approach opens the door automatically when the system detects the user walking up. Users must switch it on manually in Google Wallet.
One key covers the whole home. Google generates a single digital home key per Google Home household, and it can open every compatible lock tied to that account. Each member linked to the same account can add their own key to a personal Google Wallet.
Which locks and phones work
The feature relies on Aliro, an open standard meant to let any smartphone open any compliant smart lock. Google lists three locks at launch:
the Aqara U400, which supports NFC and UWB (ultra-wideband, a short-range radio used for precise positioning); the Schlage Sense Pro, with NFC at launch and UWB to follow; and the Nuki Keypad 2 in its NFC version. Google has promised more.
Users also need a Matter-enabled Google Hub with a Thread Border Router, such as the second-generation Nest Hub. Tap to Unlock requires an NFC-capable phone running Android 9 or later.
Hands-free unlocking is limited to Android phones with Aliro-compatible UWB, starting with the Pixel 10 Pro series. Wear OS smartwatches are not supported at launch.
Why it matters
Aliro aims to end the fragmentation that has forced buyers to match a lock to a specific phone brand or app. Google's adoption gives the standard its largest consumer rollout so far.
Before this update, Android owners controlled compatible locks through manufacturers' apps and Google Home. Google Wallet already holds digital car keys for supported vehicles.
Google has not disclosed pricing or licensing terms.
