Google is bringing digital home keys to Google Wallet, giving Android users a way to unlock compatible smart locks with their phones. The capability is now in public preview through the Google Home app and is scheduled to reach all users “over the coming weeks,” according to Google’s announcement.
The update extends Google Home’s existing unlocking functions by using the Near Field Communication (NFC) and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) radios in supported phones. A single digital home key can operate multiple compatible locks, while people associated with the same Google Home account can add individual keys to their own Google Wallet accounts.
Two unlocking methods
Google Wallet supports both close-range tapping and hands-free entry, although each method has different requirements. Tap to Unlock works when the back of an NFC-capable Android phone is held near the lock reader. The phone does not need to be unlocked for that action.
Unlock on Approach must first be enabled in Google Wallet. Once enabled, it can open a door automatically when the system detects the user approaching. This hands-free function is limited to Android phones compatible with Aliro UWB, including the Google Pixel 10 Pro series and later models identified by Google.
- Tap to Unlock requires an NFC-enabled phone running Android 9 or later.
- Unlock on Approach requires an Aliro UWB-compatible Android phone.
- Multiple locks can be associated with one digital home key.
- Wear OS smartwatches are not supported at launch.
Lock and hub compatibility remains limited
The capabilities are built on Aliro, an open standard intended to allow smartphones to unlock smart locks across manufacturers. Google’s current supported-lock list includes the Aqara u400, Schlage Sense Pro and Nuki Keypad 2 NFC. Google said additional locks are planned, but the presently compatible hardware remains limited.
Schlage Sense Pro supports NFC at launch, with UWB to follow, according to the announcement. That distinction is important for integrators specifying access hardware: support for a lock in Google Wallet does not necessarily mean that every unlocking mode is available immediately.
| Requirement or product | Details | Availability or status |
|---|---|---|
| Google Wallet digital home key | Unlocks compatible locks using NFC or UWB | Public preview; broader rollout planned over the coming weeks |
| Aqara u400 | Listed as a supported lock | Supported hardware |
| Schlage Sense Pro | NFC at launch; UWB to follow | Supported with staged functionality |
| Nuki Keypad 2 NFC | Listed as a supported lock | Supported hardware |
| Google Hub | Matter-enabled hub with Thread Border Router capability | Required; the 2nd-gen Nest Hub is an example |
Infrastructure requirements
A compatible lock alone is not sufficient. Users also need a Matter-enabled Google Hub with Thread Border Router capability. Google lists the 2nd-gen Nest Hub as an example of the required hub hardware.
For professional installers, the rollout therefore combines credential setup with lock, phone and hub compatibility checks. Android version, NFC support and UWB capability determine which unlocking method can be used, while the selected lock determines whether NFC, UWB or both are available. The Google Home account structure also governs how household members receive their own digital keys.
Google has not included Wear OS smartwatches in the launch support list. The company’s wording indicates that watch support is not available at launch, without specifying a release date for that capability.
