Google Wallet adds digital home keys for compatible smart locks on Android

Google Wallet is gaining digital home keys, allowing Android users to unlock compatible smart locks with an NFC tap or hands-free using UWB.

Rollout and availability

The functionality is rolling out to Google Home Public Preview users starting November 11, 2026, with wider availability expected over the coming weeks. Users need the latest Google Wallet and Google Home builds.

Supported locks and phones

The feature supports select Aliro-compatible locks from Aqara, Schlage, and Nuki. Google confirmed three compatible products at launch:

• Aqara U400: Supports NFC and UWB unlocking.
• Schlage Sense Pro: Supports NFC at launch, UWB functionality coming later.
• Nuki Keypad 2 NFC: Supports NFC unlocking only.

For NFC unlocking, users need an NFC-enabled Android phone running Android 9 or later. For UWB, users need an Aliro UWB-compatible Android phone and smart lock. Google specifically mentioned the Pixel 10 Pro series and above, including Fold and XL models. "Select UWB-enabled Samsung Galaxy phones" are also supported, Google added.

A Matter-enabled Google Hub with a Thread Border Router is also required to complete the setup. Compatible devices include the Nest Hub (2nd gen), Nest Hub Max, Nest Wifi Pro, and Google TV Streamer.

How it works

With NFC, users tap their phone to unlock compatible locks. With UWB, users can unlock their door automatically just by walking up to it.

One digital key in Google Wallet works with multiple compatible Aliro locks in the same home because the key is tied to the home in the Google Home app, not an individual lock.

Both NFC and UWB unlocking work without unlocking the phone, provided the phone has been unlocked within the previous few hours. Users can disable automatic unlocking and require screen lock or biometric verification every time they tap to unlock. UWB-powered Unlock on Approach is disabled by default.

Keys are added through the Google Home app, which prompts users to save one after setup. Users can also go to Home settings > Google Wallet key.

Why it matters

The feature brings Google Wallet in line with Samsung Wallet, which introduced similar digital key functionality earlier in 2026. It expands how Android users can access their homes without physical keys, though it is limited to Matter-certified locks supporting the Aliro standard from the Connectivity Standards Alliance.

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Sources

• androidauthority.com: Google Wallet adds digital home keys with NFC and UWB support
• mezha.net: Google Wallet rolls out digital home keys for supported Android locks

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.