It was time for our mailboxes to become smart. Faced with the increase in parcel thefts and the weakness of current locking systems, La Poste has chosen innovation rather than the mass replacement of millions of existing mailboxes. This innovation, presented at Vivatech this year and planned for 2027, promises a unique user experience, enhanced security, and simplified access management for both individuals and mail carriers.
A security and modernization challenge
A simple cylinder change will be all it takes to install La Poste's new electronic lock, which is compatible with current standards and requires neither batteries nor an electrical connection. The principle is based on NFC technology, already used in bank cards and building access badges. When a user brings their smartphone close to the lock, it captures the energy transmitted contactlessly to activate the opening mechanism. No battery required, so no maintenance.
La Poste's goal is ambitious: to create an interoperable standard, based on the Vigik system model, which already provides secure access to building lobbies for professionals. This new standard, developed in partnership with several European manufacturers, will aim to guarantee compatibility between all manufacturers of mailboxes and connected locks. Through a mobile application, the mailbox owner will be able to:
- Unlock their mailbox by bringing their phone near it
- Track the history of openings (who, when, how)
- Grant or withdraw access authorizations remotely, for example to a neighbor or a family member
- Block their mailbox remotely after receiving an important package
- Inform their delivery person of a return from vacation
The postman, for his part, will have specific authorization to open the mailbox when delivering or collecting a package, without the risk of key duplication or fraudulent use.
And privacy?
Unlike locks Unlike current systems, whose keys are easily found on the Internet, La Poste's connected lock uses an encrypted data exchange between the smartphone and the lock. No visible code is transmitted, which eliminates the risk of interception or hacking. Traceability is ensured without compromising privacy: no personal data is recorded; only the activity (delivery, opening) will allow the parcels' journey to be tracked.
One of the project's strong points is its desire to remain affordable. The group aims to offer this lock for less than 50 euros, in order to democratize its widespread adoption. Installation is also designed to be simple, without major modifications to the existing box, which facilitates its transition.
Towards a secure and interoperable ecosystem
Commercialization is planned for 2027, after a phase of testing and technical adjustments. Ultimately, this innovation could become the European standard. La Poste also intends to create a real ecosystem around the connected mailbox, with the ambition of making the French standard a benchmark for securing home deliveries.
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