The following is big news for smart home ecosystem folks who may have already, or have been wanting to, adopt UWB-powered smart locks. Google Home is introducing digital key cards which will allow for USB support, meaning unlocking your front door will only take the act of you approaching to get inside.
I have tested this reality via one of the already supported smart locks, which is the Aqara U400, and it is one of the best things ever. No codes or keys to get inside, simply walk up with your phone and the door unlocks. Game changer.
Google says this feature is rolling out first in preview, but will be made available to everyone in the coming weeks.
Here is how they work together: you set up your smart lock and manage household access in the Google Home app, and with one tap, add a digital home key to Google Wallet right alongside your payment cards and passes. Once added, there is no need to dig for a physical key, type a passcode, or open an app — just tap your Android phone against the lock or walk up to unlock hands-free on supported locks.
Having a home key inside of Google Wallet does obviously require a bit of hardware. Google was kind enough to lay out exactly what you’ll need. The following or a mixture of will be needed: Compatible Matter-certified smart lock that supports the Aliro standard, Matter-enabled Google Hub with Thread Border Router (such as Nest Hub (2nd gen), Nest Hub Max, Nest Wifi Pro, or Google TV Streamer), and a compatible NFC-enabled Android phone with the latest versions of the Google Home and Google Wallet apps.
Follow the link to learn more, then feel free to snag a compatible lock right here.
