Aliro Smart Lock Standard Specification Confirmed for Q1 2026 Release
The Aliro smart lock standard is slated for launch, with its initial specification anticipated in the first quarter of 2026. This standard aims to standardize NFC-based tap-to-unlock and Ultrawide Band (UWB) hands-free unlocking features for smart locks.
Nelson Henry, Chair of the Aliro Steering Committee, confirmed that Aliro, the Connectivity Standards Alliance’s (CSA) protocol for standardized credentials and communication, has completed its final verification. This protocol is designed to enable trusted smartphones and wearables to function as digital keys for smart locks and readers in various environments.
Standard Overview
Announced in 2023, Aliro is an open standard intended to provide a uniform method for smart locks to communicate with smartphones and smartwatches, independent of manufacturer or platform. The standard seeks to integrate capabilities similar to Apple's Home Key, which utilizes NFC for tap-to-unlock and UWB for hands-free unlocking via iPhones.
This standardization could extend these features to Android phones and other smart home platforms, allowing users of devices such as Galaxy or Pixel phones to unlock compatible smart locks using their own devices.
Industry Collaboration
Aliro represents an industry-wide collaboration. Key contributors to its development include Apple, Google, Samsung, Allegion, Assa Abloy, Qualcomm, and NXP. Additionally, several lock manufacturers, including Schlage, Kwikset, X-Things/U-Tec, Level, and Nuki, have announced plans to support the Aliro standard.
Communication Protocols
Aliro-certified locks are designed to support one or more of the following communication options:
- Near Field Communication (NFC): Facilitates tap-to-unlock functionality by physically tapping a phone or watch against the lock.
- Bluetooth LE (BLE): Allows a phone to initiate an unlock command as a user approaches the door.
- BLE plus Ultrawide Band (UWB): Enables hands-free unlocking when a user with a compatible phone is in proximity to the door, such as with their phone in a pocket or bag.
It is important to note that locks must possess compatible radios and antennas to support these protocols, meaning that existing smart lock models may not be upgradeable to Aliro functionality.
Security and Offline Operation
The CSA emphasizes Aliro's direct and secure communication pathway between a user's device and the lock. This design eliminates the necessity for an accompanying application to be open and does not rely on cloud services. User credentials are stored directly on the device, and communication between the device and the lock is secured using asymmetric encryption. This architecture also ensures that the system functions even when a phone is offline or lacks cellular service, akin to a traditional physical key.
Development Progress and Future Expectations
Nelson Henry stated that the CSA has made substantial progress over the past two years in developing the Aliro 1.0 specification, its associated certification program, and a supporting test system. The CSA anticipates that these foundational developments will facilitate rapid and widespread adoption, with Aliro-supported smart locks potentially becoming available to consumers in the near future.