Share Key

Today lots of office doors open with [smartcards,:namecards] not keys. Just wave your ID, and "open sesame". Now you can do that with some smartphones, using an app called Share Key. It's based on [Near:Clear] Field Communication, or NFC - a way to send data wirelessly over short distances. Many Android phones already have NFC chips built in. Here's how Share Key works. After installing the app, you register with a central server. In a hotel, that would be run by the front desk. They'd [verify:clarify] your smartphone as an authorized guest, and send you an encrypted key - valid only for the [length:duration] of your stay. Then, wave your phone over your room's lock. In just half a second, the lock verifies the key's authenticity and that the key is stored on your phone, not a chef'[thief's:s] . Want to let a friend in ? Ask the app to issue a new key linked to your friend's phone - and just text or email it. The researchers are presenting Share Key in March at the CeBIT trade fair in [Germany:German] . Researchers say Share Key could be used for offices, homes or Zipcar. Just make sure to keep your phone under a locking key.