CSA releases Aliro 1.0: Unified standard for digital keys
Aliro combines NFC, Bluetooth LE, and UWB—bringing interoperable mobile credentials to smart locks, buildings, and campus environments
The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) has published the Aliro 1.0 specification: a new communication and credential standard designed to significantly simplify access to doors, barriers, and readers via digital keys.
Aliro is not only aimed at smart home locks, but also at a wide range of applications – from office buildings and universities to hotels, single-family homes, and apartment buildings.
Focus on broad acceptance through wallet integration
A key component of the Aliro strategy is the confirmed support of the major wallet ecosystems Apple, Google, and Samsung. This will enable digital keys to be used in a standardized way via wallets on smartphones and wearables, regardless of the lock or reader provider.
"Aliro solves the fragmentation that has slowed the adoption of digital keys to date – replacing it with a single interoperability standard developed through collaboration among Alliance members," said Tobin Richardson, President & CEO of the Connectivity Standards Alliance.
A standard for secure, seamless access – even without network coverage
Aliro 1.0 defines a framework for secure and trustworthy interactions between end devices and readers based on asymmetric cryptography, taking data protection requirements into account. The standard is designed to work even in environments without a stable network connection – such as underground parking garages or elevators.
Aliro supports multiple radio technologies for different installation and usage scenarios:
NFC for "tap-to-access"
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for user-initiated communication over longer distances
BLE + Ultra-Wideband (UWB) for seamless, secure "hands-free" authentication
Certification and testing programs as enablers for faster market launch
To ensure global reliability, Aliro relies on a comprehensive certification program including test suites conducted by authorized test laboratories. The initiative brings together a network of more than 220 member companies – from lock and reader manufacturers to silicon providers and mobile platforms.
Contributing companies include Apple, ASSA ABLOY, Google, Infineon, Samsung, and STMicroelectronics; initial certifications are expected from Apple, Allegion, Aqara, Google, HID, Nuki, NXP, and others.
Benefits along the entire value chain
Aliro aims to reduce implementation complexity and simplify interoperability between manufacturers:
Manufacturers benefit from clear interoperability rules and lower integration and development costs
System integrators benefit from faster commissioning and more efficient troubleshooting across multi-vendor installations
Operators gain more flexibility in hardware/software selection and simplified maintenance
Outlook: "Living standard" with enhancements
The CSA positions Aliro as an evolving standard. Future releases are expected to integrate additional requirements and use cases—such as secure key sharing —while ensuring backward compatibility.
Learn more about Aliro and access the Aliro 1.0 specification documents.