Google Wallet on Android is getting a major upgrade today with built-in support for digital home keys—so long as your smart lock is compatible and set up through the Google Home ecosystem. Once configured, you’ll be able to unlock your door by tapping your phone, even if the screen is locked, although you can turn on screen lock or biometric verification for extra security.
This new feature rolls out to Android phones running version 9 or higher. It also introduces “Unlock on Approach” support for Aliro-brand Ultra Wideband (UWB) locks and phones, although that UWB feature won’t be available on Wear OS watches at launch. Models already supported include the Pixel 10 Pro series and select UWB-enabled Galaxy phones.
How Digital Home Keys Work
Instead of issuing individual lock-by-lock credentials, Google Wallet ties your key to the Google Home app. That means all Aliro locks linked to your home will share the same digital key. To start, users set up their compatible smart lock in the Home app, then they’ll be prompted to save the digital key to Google Wallet, or can add it later through Home settings.
Once added, the key syncs across every Android phone signed into your Google Wallet account. The Wallet card displays a simple Google Home icon alongside the home’s name.
Lock Compatibility & Deployment
At launch, only three smart locks are supported: the Aqara u400 (with UWB and NFC), the Schlage Sense Pro (initially NFC, with UWB support on the way), and the Nuki Keypad 2 NFC. Google says it plans to add more models in the future.
The feature is currently rolling out in Google Home’s Public Preview, with full availability expected to follow over the coming weeks.
Whereas traditional smart lock setups often require clunky apps or separate credentials per door, this approach offers streamlining via Wallet and Home. NFC tapping—even with the phone locked—is especially useful for hands-full moments, and UWB’s approach detection could add hands-free unlocking for premium phone models.
This addition not only expands Google Wallet’s scope beyond payments and travel cards but also tightens integration with Home, signaling where smart home security is headed. Watch for broader manufacturer support and how Google handles privacy and security settings—like authorization requirements—to see if this becomes the standard for digital access.
