Samsung has introduced a feature similar to Apple’s Home Key, allowing Galaxy phone users to tap to unlock using Aliro. Following the reveal of the Galaxy S26, Samsung is now enabling users to unlock their homes with a phone tap or simply by approaching their door. This feature, named Digital Home Key, is integrated within Samsung Wallet and utilizes the Aliro smart home standard.
Samsung initially hinted at this capability in 2024, aiming for a 2025 release. However, delays arose as the CSA’s Aliro standard, which enables smart lock unlocking with any phone, only launched in February this year. The standard employs near-field communication (NFC) for tap-to-unlock and also supports ultra-wideband (UWB), allowing door unlocking as users approach, even without taking out their phone.
Additionally, Samsung announced the integration of American Airlines boarding passes into their wallets. The Digital Home Key will be available to Samsung smartphone users in “select regions” this month, with UWB support arriving in April. While only a few locks support the new Aliro standard, Aqara claims its U400 lock is “Aliro-ready,” possibly making it the first compatible lock for Samsung’s Digital Home Key. This lock already supports Apple’s Home Key hands-free unlocking feature.
To use Digital Home Key, users must set up a compatible smart lock via SmartThings using Matter. Only specific Galaxy models, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and up, and the Galaxy S22 Ultra and up, support both NFC and UWB. A full list of compatible devices is available on Samsung’s website.