Tag: NFC

The much-anticipated smart lock standard Aliro is finally set to launch after a long delay. The initial specification, which standardizes NFC-based tap-to-unlock and UWB hands-free unlocking for smart locks, is expected to be released early this year, according to the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA). "We are thrilled to announce that Aliro, the CSA's standardized credential and communication protocol that enables trusted smartphones and wearables to act as digital keys with smart locks and readers in your home and workplace, has successfully completed its final verification milestone and will be available in Q1 2026," said Nelson Henry, Chair of the Aliro Steering Committee, in a statement to The Verge. Introduced in 2023, Aliro serves as an open standard for smart locks and digital keys, offering a uniform method for smart locks to interact with smartphones and watches, regardless of the manufacturer or platform. Ultimately, this standardization is expected to expand the capabilities of smart locks and smartphones, similar to Apple's Home Key feature on the iPhone. This feature allows users to utilize their iPhone as a digital key for tap-to-unlock using NFC, akin to tap-to-pay. Additionally, Apple recently introduced a UWB-powered hands-free unlocking feature that automatically unlocks the door as the user approaches. With Aliro, these functionalities can now be extended to Android phones and other smart home platforms, enabling users to unlock the same smart lock using their individual devices as keys, regardless of the device model. Aliro is a collaborative effort across the industry, developed by tech giants like Apple, Google, and Samsung, as well as lock and chip manufacturers such as Allegion, Assa Abloy, Qualcomm, and NXP. Various lock manufacturers, including Schlage, Kwikset, X-Things/U-Tec, Level, and Nuki, have already announced their plans to support Aliro. Aliro-certified locks will utilize different communication options to unlock a compatible door, providing users with a seamless and secure unlocking experience. One of the key advantages of Aliro, according to the CSA, is its ability to establish direct and secure communication between the user's device and the lock without the need for an app or cloud involvement. The credentials are stored on the user's device, and communication between the device and the lock is encrypted asymmetrically. This ensures that the system will function even when the user's phone is offline or has no service, similar to a traditional key. Henry mentioned that the CSA has made significant strides in the past two years by developing the Aliro 1.0 specification, certification program, and supporting test system. This progress positions Aliro for rapid and widespread adoption, with smart locks featuring Aliro support expected to hit the market soon.

Tag: NFC

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