NXP Semiconductors recently announced that its single-chip NFC and embedded secure element solution, the SN220, has been certified by the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) under its CCC Digital Key Certification Programme, launched in December 2023.
According to NXP, this certification positions the company as the first provider of digital car key solutions to receive such recognition for its NFC chips. This achievement forms part of NXP’s comprehensive system solutions, which encompass the entire digital car key ecosystem, including Ultra-Wideband (UWB), NFC chips, and Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) for both mobile device manufacturers and car OEMs.
Digital car keys offer more than seamless and secure vehicle access; they enable drivers to control car access for family members, valet drivers, and others. As this technology gains popularity, ensuring interoperability, security, and safety becomes critical.
The CCC, which includes over 200 members from automotive manufacturers, smart device makers, and technology companies, has introduced a certification programme aligned with the CCC Digital Key specification. This specification ensures seamless interoperability and security across the entire ecosystem of cars, mobile phones, and other hands-free secure car access devices.
“As a charter member of the CCC, NXP has long been at the heart of the secure car access ecosystem,” said Michael Leitner, General Manager, Smart Car Access, NXP. “This certification validates the specification that will enable the future of digital keys in the automotive market. As the first certified solution provider, NXP’s fully integrated systems will set the standard for quality and security in this rapidly growing market.”
“Certification is a crucial step towards building trust among consumers and the industry. It enables auto and device manufacturers to deliver secure, user-friendly experiences for digital key access,” added Alysia Johnson, President, Car Connectivity Consortium. “Our goal is to establish global compatibility for a seamless and secure digital key experience, regardless of what car or mobile device is involved. Designating digital key solutions as CCC Digital Key certified is helping make that possible.”
“At Xiaomi, we prioritise exceptional user experiences,” said Zhang Shuxiao, Senior Director of Connectivity, Xiaomi. “The high performance of the SN220, as well as the commitment to interoperability shown with this certification, were important to us, reflecting our dedication to delivering new and exciting features for our users.”
The SN220 is a convergence solution, combining an NFC controller with an embedded secure element in a single chip. It is part of an overall digital key system solution. NXP’s digital key solution includes not only a secure element and NFC but also utilises UWB and Bluetooth LE to ensure a consistent and seamless user experience.
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