Q: What is Aliro? Why is it important?
Roy Johnson: Aliro is a new effort to develop a communication protocol that will transform how users unlock doors and other entry points using mobile devices or wearables, like a smart watch. Aliro will enable users to experience the power of open access, which creates an environment where access control providers and mobile device manufacturers work together to eliminate barriers to innovation for the common good. This open ecosystem concept fosters collaboration and modernization, providing customers the freedom to select products without sacrificing interoperability. This ultimately empowers customers to choose the solutions that best fit their needs.
Ryan Kincaid: Global collaboration and open standards, as demonstrated by the success of initiatives like Matter, have shown that they are the key to widespread adoption of new technology and better user experiences. We expect Aliro to not only provide a more seamless end-user experience but also reduce the complexity for system owners and installers. Ultimately it will become easier for them to select the best hardware and software for their needs, streamline installation and support a variety of consumer smart devices.
Q: What is Allegion’s role in developing Aliro?
RK: Aliro was created by the Connectivity Stands Alliance, an international community of more than 675 technology companies—including industry giants like Apple, Google, Samsung and Verizon— committed to open standards for the Internet of Things. Allegion has been a key player in the development of Aliro since its inception—we’re a founding member on this effort. While the standard is still in its early development phase, we’re actively working with other industry leaders to push it forward, and you’ll find Allegion team members collaborating as part of the Aliro Steering Committee and Marketing Committee, plus serving as technical and security contributors.
RJ: Playing a leading role in the development of Aliro is a meaningful opportunity for Allegion, and one we’re passionate about. As part of our work on the standard, our team members are working alongside other industry experts to solve problems like: How can Aliro reduce complexity for integration and streamline troubleshooting? How can it simplify the management and maintenance of access control systems? How can it provide greater flexibility and security to users?
Q: How does global collaboration and the development of open standards like Aliro encourage and accelerate the use of new technology?
RJ: These standards provide a common set of rules and guidelines that ensure interoperability between different technologies. In other words, they make it possible for different devices and systems to work together seamlessly across different spaces. Whether it's accessing your home, workplace or school, open standards ensure a consistent and user-friendly experience regardless of the platform being used. Ultimately, it seeks to future-proof access solutions and provide greater flexibility for users, which, in turn, accelerates adoption.
RK: From a collaboration standpoint, the Alliance is focused on inclusivity and represents leading technology companies from around the globe. It's creating an even playing field for everyone, eliminating the barriers and restrictions that come with proprietary technologies, allowing anyone to participate and contribute. This inclusivity drives creativity and accelerates the pace of technological advancements and innovation.
Q: How will Aliro improve security and ultimately enable a safer world?
RJ: The security aspect of Aliro is a crucial component that aligns with Allegion’s commitment to keeping people safe. And, already, Allegion has been instrumental in driving the adoption of modern and advanced measures in Aliro, including asymmetric keys, revocation protocols and the highest security standards.
RK: It’s expected to incorporate requirements that drive updates and advancements in hardware, too. Overall, this helps ensure customers will benefit from higher levels of security and value when they choose Aliro-certified products.
Q: How does Aliro support Allegion’s vision of enabling seamless access and a safer world?
RK: Aliro is intended to make access experiences more seamless. It will be broadly applicable, covering multiple technologies and enabling consistent experiences—and, just as important, safe experiences.
RJ: Aliro is guided by four key principles: simplicity, flexibility, security and interoperability. When it comes to this protocol, our team’s vision is that interoperability enables the experiences that people love and trust the most within their spaces. This directly feeds into Allegion’s vision of enabling seamless access and a safer world, too. Because of this, Aliro will have a lasting impact on how people access their homes, offices and many other places where they thrive.
