Google Wallet can now unlock your home door
What's the story
Google has announced a major update for its Wallet app, bringing support for digital home keys. The new feature lets Android users unlock compatible smart locks by simply tapping their phone against it or by walking up to it. The update is currently in public preview for the Google Home app and will be available to all users "over the coming weeks."
User convenience
Digital home key support in Google Wallet
The addition of digital home key support to Google Wallet is a long-awaited feature, especially since Samsung and Apple users have been enjoying this convenience for some time.
The update leverages the Near Field Communication (NFC) and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technologies in phones with compatible smart locks.
Multiple locks can be managed through Google Wallet using a single digital home key.
Feature details
Two unlocking methods
The Tap to Unlock feature works by holding the back of an NFC-enabled Android phone near the lock reader. It doesn't even require the phone to be unlocked.
Meanwhile, the Unlock on Approach feature needs manual activation in Google Wallet but can automatically unlock a door when it detects a user walking up to it.
User requirements
Supported locks and hardware requirements
The new capabilities are built on Aliro, an open standard that allows any smartphone to unlock any smart lock. However, hardware support for this technology is still limited.
Currently, supported locks include the Aqara u400, Schlage Sense Pro (NFC at launch and UWB to follow), and Nuki Keypad 2 NFC, with more locks expected in the future.
Device compatibility
Requirements for Matter-enabled Google Hub
To use these new capabilities, users will need a Matter-enabled Google Hub with Thread Border Router, such as the second-generation Nest Hub.
Tap to unlock works on NFC-enabled phones running Android 9 or later, while hands-free unlocking only works on Aliro UWB-compatible Android phones like Google Pixel 10 Pro series and above.
Wear OS smartwatches aren't supported "at launch," but could be in future updates.