Nuki has unveiled this week its new Keypad 2 NFC, which is the first of its kind to support Aliro technology, enabling users to unlock their doors using their smartphones or smartwatches. This new technology, priced at $179, enhances the security and convenience experience for users, allowing them to unlock their doors simply by tapping their phones, just as they do when making payments.
The Aliro technology is a new standard in the world of smart locks, supported by all major platforms and phone manufacturers. This standard aims to enable any smart lock to be opened securely by any smartphone, regardless of the manufacturer, without the need for special applications. The digital key is stored in the phone's wallet, simplifying the unlocking process.
Event Details
The new keypad is capable of working with both Apple Home Key and Samsung Digital Home Key, providing multiple options for users. Additionally, the keypad supports communication technologies such as NFC, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and Ultra Wideband (UWB), allowing doors to be easily unlocked using smartphones.
Nuki is a customizable smart lock, which means there is no need to remove the old lock for installation. Instead, the internal part of the lock is replaced with Nuki, making the installation process easy and suitable for renters or those who do not wish to replace their entire lock. There is no visible smart lock from the outside, making the external keypad essential for activating the tap-to-unlock feature.
Background & Context
Earlier this year, Aqara launched the first complete door lock supporting the Aliro standard, the Aqara U400, which also features UWB technology, allowing for hands-free unlocking with Apple Home. While the new Nuki keypad only supports NFC technology, meaning it does not support hands-free unlocking.
The new keypad can be set to one of two modes: Smart Home mode or Nuki App mode. The first mode allows the lock to work with Apple Home and Samsung SmartThings, connecting through Matter. Meanwhile, the Nuki App mode allows the tap-to-unlock feature to be used without being tied to a specific platform or manufacturer.
Impact & Consequences
This move by Nuki is part of the growing trend towards integrating smart technology into our daily lives, making the user experience easier and enhancing security. However, the Aliro standard is still in its early stages, and compatibility remains limited. Marina Stix from Nuki states that the keypad currently supports both Apple Home Key and Samsung Digital Home Key, but Apple Home must be paired first before adding Samsung SmartThings.
Nuki is continuously working with digital wallet providers to improve compatibility between their systems, but no timelines have been set for future changes or enhancements.
Regional Significance
With the increasing use of smart technology in the Arab region, these innovations may contribute to enhancing personal security and facilitating daily life for users. Many Arab countries are moving towards adopting modern technologies in various fields, including home security, reflecting the importance of these developments in improving quality of life.
In conclusion, the launch of Nuki's new keypad represents an important step towards a safer and more convenient future, allowing users to unlock their doors easily and securely using their smartphones.