NXP Software Development Kit with Apple HomeKit Support Delivers Exceptional Performance and Advanced Security for the Smart Home Market

SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 02, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NXP Semiconductors (NASDAQ:NXPI) today announced that its Apple HomeKit Software Development Kit (SDK) offers full support for home automation applications using HomeKit, delivering exceptional performance, advanced security, while supporting all connectivity options, including BLE, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and remote access over iCloud.

HomeKit is a framework in iOS that lets accessories connect seamlessly so people can better manage their homes using the Apple Home app through their iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. It offers a set of common protocols which enable many types of accessories to work together easily and securely, and allows consumers to control them simply asking Siri. HomeKit is built on a secure foundation with end-to-end encryption, providing customers a secure connection between their iPhone or iPad and HomeKit-enabled accessories.

NXP’s SDK with HomeKit support is architected for multiple system configurations, from a very low power wireless single chip microcontroller (MCU) system (like Kinetis KW41Z and KW31Z), to a dual processor system consisting of a host processor (like Kinetis , LPC or i.MX) that runs the HomeKit Accessory Protocol (HAP) and accessory application, and a wireless radio. Many Kinetis MCUs and i.MX applications processors offer a wide array of advanced security features such as cryptographic keys storage, software and system protection options, a hardware random number generator (RNG), and integrated system tamper detection.

“HomeKit is the leading way for consumer adoption of the smart home, with an open platform that allows accessories to work seamlessly together and securely with your iPhone or iPad,” said Emmanuel Sambuis, vice president of microcontrollers and connectivity at NXP Semiconductors. “By adding HomeKit support to NXP’s rich portfolio of MCUs, application processors and crossover processors, accessory makers can enjoy the benefits of everything the platform offers including Siri voice control, iCloud remote access, easy configuration, user APIs with built-in firmware upgrade support to address these consumer requirements, enabling fast and efficient design for a broad spectrum of home automation products.”

Prominent features supported include:

• A debug mode that provides visibility of the user API and select application parameters
   
• Implementation of virtual accessories that can be used as the starting point for product development, even before all the application hardware is available

The first product based on NXP Kinetis technology with full HomeKit support is the Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt from Allegion®. Schlage’s solution is HomeKit compatible and leverages the performance and security capabilities of the Kinetis K11 MCU. It is designed to let users control door locks using an iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch. The Schlage Sense™ solution also helps users manage and store multiple access codes and share electronic access.

Availability and Support
NXP’s SDK with HomeKit support is now available at www.nxp.com/homekit.

The SDK includes a royalty-free NXP BLE host stack with most of the GATT profiles, all fully compliant with the BLE 4.2 specification, and Wi-Fi networking with multiple NXP MCUs and processors. In addition, NXP professional services are available to help customers with hardware and software development, plus system integration and customization. For more information please contact, mike.toh@nxp.com.

About NXP Semiconductors
NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ:NXPI) enables secure connections and infrastructure for a smarter world, advancing solutions that make lives easier, better and safer. As the world leader in secure connectivity solutions for embedded applications, NXP is driving innovation in the secure connected vehicle, end-to-end security & privacy and smart connected solutions markets. Built on more than 60 years of combined experience and expertise, the company has 31,000 employees in more than 33 countries and posted revenue of $9.5 billion in 2016. Find out more at www.nxp.com.

NXP, the NXP logo and Kinetis are trademarks of NXP B.V. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved. © 2017 NXP B.V.

For more information, please contact:     

Americas
Tate Tran
Tel: +1 408 802 0602
Email: tate.tran@nxp.com

Greater China/Asia
Esther Chang
Tel: +886 2 8170 9990
Email: esther.chan@nxp.com

Europe
Martijn van der Linden
Phone: +31 6 1091 4896
Email: martijn.van.der.linden@nxp.com