STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global leader in semiconductor technology, has introduced a secure NFC chip engineered to simplify and accelerate the setup of smart-home equipment using the latest Matter standard. The new ST25DA-C allows homeowners to add lighting systems, access control hardware, surveillance cameras, and other connected devices to their home network with a single tap of a smartphone. It is the first commercial chip aligned with the new NFC-based enhancements defined in Matter, the open-source smart-home framework designed to deliver seamless, interoperable, and reliable connectivity across brands.
By integrating NFC-driven onboarding into Matter 1.5, users can pair devices through tap-to-connect without depending on Bluetooth® or QR codes, which can be challenging during installations in hard-to-reach areas. The ST25DA-C supports battery-less pairing through RF energy harvesting, enabling unpowered devices to be added instantly and making large-scale smart-home installations far more practical. This advancement responds to growing consumer expectations for easier operation, stronger security, and smooth interoperability across connected appliances.
“Consumers want infrastructure that is efficient, secure, and simple to use. NFC-enabled Matter devices answer this need and will strongly influence adoption of smart-home products,” said David Richetto, Group VP, Division General Manager, Connected Security at STMicroelectronics. Shobhit Srivastava, Senior Principal Analyst at Omdia, added that Matter has become an essential standard for cross-platform smart-home communication, highlighting the ST25DA-C as an example of next-generation silicon that will help manufacturers develop future-ready connected devices.
The ST25DA-C features security capabilities rooted in ST’s expertise in embedded secure elements, offering device authentication and protected storage of cryptographic credentials, certificates, and network keys. Built on Common Criteria-certified hardware, the device is planned for certification under the GlobalPlatform Security Evaluation Standard for IoT Platforms (SESIP level 3).
The ST25DA-C is currently available for sampling in a compact DFN8 package, with mass production expected in 2026. Technical documentation, evaluation boards, and engineering samples can be accessed through ST’s regional sales channels.
STMicroelectronics is an integrated device manufacturer with 50,000 employees and a global customer base of more than 200,000. The company develops semiconductor solutions that support smarter mobility, efficient energy use, and large-scale deployment of connected autonomous systems. ST is progressing toward carbon neutrality across scopes 1 and 2, transportation, business travel, and employee commuting, and aims to source 100% renewable electricity by the end of 2027.
