Google Wallet can now hold the keys to your home

Google Wallet has expanded its capabilities to include digital home keys, allowing Android users to unlock their homes with a simple tap of their phone. This feature is currently in the Google Home Public Preview program but will be rolled out to all users soon. Compatible smart locks, such as Aqara u400, Schlage Sense Pro, and Nuki Keypad 2 NFC, can be linked to Google Home and added directly to Google Wallet.

Once added, users can tap their phone against the lock to unlock it, even when the phone is locked and the screen is off. Google has also introduced an unlock-on-approach option, which automatically unlocks the door as the user approaches. Compatible Android phones include the Pixel 10 Pro and later models, while Wear OS watches do not support this feature at the moment.

For smart locks, the Aqara u400, Schlage Sense Pro, and Nuki Keypad 2 NFC are supported at launch. To use this feature, users need a Matter-enabled Google Hub with Thread border router support. Security is maintained as the feature is turned off by default, and multiple smart locks can be linked to the same Google Wallet key, allowing all members of a Google Home household to access the home.