Provides efficient processing of HomeKit accessories, advanced security, and Bluetooth Smart connectivity.

NXP Semiconductors announced a new software development kit (SDK) for Kinetis microcontrollers (MCUs) that support home automation applications using Apple HomeKit technology. This solution enables the easy development of various HomeKit-compatible products by leveraging the superior performance of NXP Kinetis products and advanced Bluetooth Smart connectivity.

HomeKit is a platform that seamlessly connects accessories on iOS to enable efficient home management. Using the common protocol provided by HomeKit, accessories can be easily integrated securely, and consumers can easily control them using Siri. Built on a secure foundation with end-to-end encryption, HomeKit provides secure connections between iPhones, iPads or iPod Touches, and HomeKit-compatible accessories.

NXP’s HomeKit software works with Kinetis K MCUs such as the K11, K22, K24, and K26, and the Kinetis KW40Z or KW30Z wireless MCUs provide Bluetooth Smart capabilities. ARM® Cortex®-M4-based Kinetis K series MCUs deliver excellent performance and highly efficient processing to meet HomeKit encryption requirements. Many Kinetis MCUs are also equipped with advanced security features such as encryption key storage, software and system protection options, hardware random number generators (RNGs), and integrated system tamper detection.

“As home automation grows, consumers want devices to be compatible with each other and connected securely,” said Emmanuel Sambuis, Director of Microcontrollers at NXP. “NXP’s popular Kinetis MCU products support HomeKit, enabling the rapid and efficient design of a wide range of home automation products for secure IoT.”

Allegion’s Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt is the first HomeKit-enabled product based on NXP Kinetis technology and is already available for purchase at retailers such as Apple Stores. The HomeKit-compatible Schlage solution is designed to allow locking and unlocking doors using an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch by leveraging the performance and security features of the NXP Kinetis K11 MCU. The Schlage Sense solution can manage and store multiple access codes and share electronic access.