Keio University’s SFC-RG pkLock team was the only team in this competition to take on the challenge of combining IoT devices with passkeys and they even brought a 3D printer.
Their pkLock (pronounced “pic-lock”) aims to solve the common problem of cumbersome key handover for Airbnb and other private lodging by using passkey cross-device authentication.
The device they created consists of a QR code display device installed on the outside of the door and an unlocking device installed on the inside. In addition to the device, there is a web application that users use for booking and unlocking. Guests can unlock the door by holding their hand under the QR code display device in front of the door, reading the displayed QR code with their mobile phone, and performing passkey authentication (cross-device authentication).
They also paid particular attention to design a sophisticated device that hosts would want to install in their accommodations. Their comprehensive approach, which also considers the potential widespread adoption of these devices, resonated strongly with the judges.