ST unveils first secure mobile chip with post-quantum cryptography for connected services
ST has introduced the ST54M, a secure mobile chip designed to help smartphone and personal electronics manufacturers meet upcoming quantum-ready security requirements while supporting a seamless user experience across connected services.
ST54M brings to the market a single-die device featuring an innovative hardware accelerator for post-quantum cryptography (PQC), combined with NFC, secure element and eSIM functionality, delivering a powerful future-ready solution for secure mobile connectivity and services. The solution supports a wide range of use cases, including contactless payments, transit ticketing, access control, digital identity, driving licenses, connectivity services, and digital car keys.
As mobile devices increasingly serve as trusted platforms for financial transactions, identity credentials, operator services, and secure access, product developers need solutions that combine multiple functions without compromising security, performance, or convenience. ST54M addresses this need by enabling OEMs and ecosystem partners to support multiple applications on one platform while preparing for the transition toward PQC.
The device is designed for use across personal electronics ecosystems involving mobile network operators, banks, governments, transit operators, car manufacturers, digital-wallet and service providers. It helps manufacturers create devices that preserve a stable and familiar user experience while meeting stronger long-term security expectations.
ST54M is an advanced single-die solution that integrates an NFC controller with a secure element supporting secure applications, eSIM and NFC-compliant products. A key feature is its hardware accelerator for post-quantum cryptography algorithms, including ML-KEM and ML-DSA, supporting the transition from hybrid cryptographic approaches toward full post-quantum deployment. The hardware engine is designed to address emerging PQC requirements while helping protect against side-channel and fault-injection attacks and is the latest result from ST’s long-term commitment that also includes certified software libraries NesLib-PQML and X-CUBE-PQC in STM32 microcontrollers.
In addition to its security architecture, the device integrates large memory capacity to support multiple applications and includes an enhanced RF front end. These capabilities can help improve performance with smaller antennas and single-ended configurations, support more stable reader-writer operation, and enable demanding use cases such as mobile Point-of-Sale (mPOS) and wireless charging. The platform has completed certification testing under Common Criteria 2022 EUCC and EMVCo, underscoring its suitability for security-sensitive mobile applications.
