STMicroelectronics, a global leader in semiconductor technology serving a wide range of electronic applications, has announced that Rias Al-Kadi, General Manager of its Range and Connectivity Division, has joined the Board of Directors of the FiRa® Consortium. The FiRa Consortium is the leading global body focused on promoting secure fine-ranging and positioning using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. This appointment highlights ST’s growing role in shaping the future of UWB standards and driving its integration into automotive and consumer applications.
STMicroelectronics continues to play an active role in the evolution of IEEE 802.15.4ab, the latest UWB standard designed to enhance system accuracy, improve energy efficiency, and expand UWB’s functional capabilities. These advancements will enable next-generation applications such as digital car keys, smart home automation, and IoT-based location systems. Incorporating this standard into the Connected Car Consortium (CCC) Digital Key framework represents a major milestone in accelerating the deployment of secure, interoperable UWB solutions across the automotive industry.
SK Yong, Chairman of the FiRa Consortium Board, commented, “STMicroelectronics has been an integral member of the FiRa community, and we are delighted to welcome them at the Sponsor level. Rias Al-Kadi’s appointment to our board reinforces ST’s strong commitment to advancing Ultra-Wideband technology. His expertise will be crucial as FiRa continues to expand its influence in developing secure and scalable UWB solutions globally.”
Rias Al-Kadi added, “Joining the FiRa board reaffirms our dedication to developing UWB-based innovations such as the CCC Digital Key. Through deep collaboration with global standards organizations, we aim to strengthen the reliability, accessibility, and performance of UWB for both consumer and automotive markets.”
This leadership role further enhances ST’s engagement with major UWB-focused organizations, including the IEEE, Connected Car Consortium (CCC), Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), and UWB Alliance. Through active participation, ST contributes to refining UWB technologies that deliver precise positioning, improved energy management, and seamless user experiences. These initiatives align with the company’s vision of building a strong UWB ecosystem that supports secure, efficient, and cost-effective digital solutions.
Ultra-Wideband (UWB) is a high-precision wireless technology defined under the IEEE 802 family, alongside Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It enables centimeter-level ranging accuracy, high interference resistance, and secure communication for applications such as device tracking, access control, and smart object interaction. In automotive use cases, UWB underpins the Digital Key technology—allowing vehicles to detect and authenticate users’ mobile devices with precision. Recent innovations have improved reliability in challenging conditions, such as detecting keys in pockets, while optimizing the number of sensors needed for efficient system design.
STMicroelectronics is an integrated device manufacturer with a global team of over 50,000 professionals, collaborating with more than 200,000 customers and partners worldwide. The company develops and produces advanced semiconductor solutions that power smart mobility, energy efficiency, and connected technologies. ST is actively working toward achieving carbon neutrality across its operations and transportation by 2027, supporting a sustainable and connected future through innovative technologies and responsible manufacturing.
