With “Tap to Unlock”, Nuki is transferring a familiar principle from everyday life to the private home. Contactless payment via smartphone or smartwatch has long been standard – now this concept can also be used to access your own front door. With the new Keypad 2 NFC, the Austrian smart access specialist is focusing on a combination of convenience, security and open smart home integration.
- Contactless opening via NFC without starting the app
- Support for Apple Home Key and Samsung Digital Home Key
- Five different access options including fingerprint and code
- End-to-end encryption and local data storage
Tap to Unlock: NFC technology makes front door access smarter
With the Keypad 2 NFC, Nuki is consistently bringing NFC technology into the smart home sector. The approach is simple: a compatible smartphone or wearable is held up to the keypad and the door opens immediately – without the need to open an app. This direct interaction is very reminiscent of the familiar “tap to pay” principle and should save a lot of time, especially in everyday life.
Technically, the system is based on established standards such as NFC and the new Matter smart home protocol. In combination with Apple Home Key or the Samsung Digital Home Key, the door lock can be seamlessly integrated into existing ecosystems. At the same time, Nuki offers a manufacturer-independent solution with the so-called app mode, which also works without additional hubs – provided a compatible fourth or fifth generation Smart Lock is available.
The flexibility of the access options is remarkable. In addition to Tap to Unlock, classic methods such as fingerprint, PIN code or digital keys are still available. In total, up to 20 fingerprints, 35 NFC keys and 200 access codes can be stored. This variety not only increases convenience, but also suitability for everyday use in different scenarios – for example in families or shared flats.
Focus on security, standards and suitability for everyday use
In addition to convenience, security plays a central role. Nuki relies on end-to-end encryption and uses security standards similar to those used in contactless payment systems. This ensures a high level of protection for sensitive access data. In addition, all relevant data is stored locally, while cloud functions remain optional – an important aspect for privacy-conscious users.
The keypad is also well thought out in terms of hardware. It can be installed without complex cabling, either using adhesive strips or screws. Thanks to IP54 certification, the device is protected against dust and splash water and is therefore suitable for outdoor use. The power supply is designed for efficiency: A battery life of at least twelve months is realistic and corresponds to the current status of comparable devices.
A further technological step is the support of the new Aliro standard, which was specially developed for smart access. As the first Aliro-certified keypad in the private sector, Nuki is underlining its claim to be an early adopter of open standards and to improve interoperability between different platforms. This development seems plausible, as the industry is increasingly focusing on cross-manufacturer solutions.
Conclusion: Tap to Unlock brings more convenience to everyday life
With the Keypad 2 NFC, Nuki shows how proven technologies can be transferred to new areas of application in a meaningful way. Tap to Unlock combines simple operation, high security and flexible integration into existing smart home systems. The range of functions and support for modern standards make the device a future-proof solution for smart access. The keypad is available immediately for 179 euros and can also be retrofitted to existing Nuki systems.
