GENEVA - STMicroelectronics in Geneva has introduced the ST54M secure mobile chip, which the company says is the first single-die mobile security device to integrate a hardware accelerator for post-quantum cryptography (PQC) alongside near-field communication (NFC), secure element, and embedded SIM (eSIM) capabilities.

The ST54M is designed to help smartphone and personal electronics manufacturers prepare for future quantum-resistant security requirements while supporting applications such as contactless payments, transit ticketing, digital identity, mobile driver's licenses, digital car keys, access control, and mobile network services.

The chip includes hardware acceleration for the ML-KEM and ML-DSA post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, which have been standardized by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and is intended to support the industry's transition from hybrid cryptographic implementations to fully post-quantum security architectures. STMicroelectronics says the hardware is designed to help protect against side-channel and fault-injection attacks.

In addition to its security features, the ST54M integrates an NFC controller, embedded secure element, eSIM functionality, and expanded memory capacity to support multiple secure applications on a single device. The company says an enhanced RF front end is designed to improve NFC performance with smaller antennas and support applications including mobile point-of-sale terminals and wireless charging.

According to STMicroelectronics, the platform has completed Common Criteria 2022 European Union Cybersecurity Certification (EUCC) and EMVCo certification testing, with formal certifications targeted for July 2026.

For more information, please visit https://www.st.com/.