Introduction: A notable upgrade at CES
At this year’s CES, a new smart deadbolt is turning heads with a standout feature: hands-free unlocking powered by Apple’s Home Key. The Aqara U400, priced at $269.99, is the first lock to support hands-free unlocking using the U1 ultra-wideband (UWB) chip found in many iPhones and Apple Watches. This marks a significant step forward in how we interact with smart home security, blending seamless convenience with robust tech that many homeowners already carry on their wrists or in their pockets.
What is Home Key hands-free unlocking?
Home Key is Apple’s ecosystem feature designed to simplify access to compatible smart devices and doors. With the UWB-enabled U400, your iPhone or Apple Watch can automatically unlock the door when you approach, without requiring a touch or a passcode. The technology leverages precise, short-range positioning to confirm your identity securely at the doorstep, offering a frictionless entry experience while maintaining a strong security posture.
Why UWB matters for smart locks
Ultra-wideband provides more accurate spatial awareness than traditional Bluetooth-based approaches. For a smart lock, this means the system can reliably distinguish you from nearby individuals, reducing false unlocks and increasing security. The U400’s use of UWB helps ensure that only authorized users get automatic access, and it can also support more complex access scenarios, such as shared keys for family members or trusted guests with limited time windows.
Key features and specs of the U400
The U400 is designed to integrate seamlessly with the broader Apple ecosystem and HomeKit-ready setups. In addition to hands-free unlocking, expect standard smart lock functions such as remote locking/unlocking via a companion app, event logs for access history, and compatibility with automations and scenes. While the primary draw is hands-free entry, the lock also emphasizes robust physical security, durable construction, and reliable battery life—common expectations for modern smart locks that sit on an exterior door.
Compatibility and setup
To leverage Home Key hands-free unlocking, you’ll need compatible Apple hardware (iPhone or Apple Watch) with UWB support and the latest software updates. Setup typically involves pairing the lock with your Home app, configuring access permissions for family members, and ensuring your iOS or watchOS versions are current. If you’re already embedded in HomeKit, the U400 should slot into existing automations and scenes without major overhauls, letting you trigger other smart devices when you lock up for the night or tuck in for the morning.
Security considerations
With any hands-free unlock system, security remains a priority. The UWB solution provides strong cryptographic foundations and proximity-based access controls. It’s important to review who has access, set clear permissions, and consider adding an optional backup method (such as a keypad or a traditional key) for scenarios where a trusted device is unavailable or the user’s credentials need to be revoked quickly.
What this means for smart home enthusiasts
The introduction of hands-free unlocking on a mainstream smart deadbolt signals broader adoption of frictionless security in homes. By tying a high-security device to a familiar, everyday device (your iPhone or Apple Watch), Aqara is reducing the barrier to entry for households exploring HomeKit-driven automation. If you’re already invested in Apple’s ecosystem, the U400 offers a compelling upgrade path that aligns security, convenience, and modern design into one package.
Conclusion: Ready for a smarter entrance?
As smart home technology continues to mature, features like Home Key hands-free unlocking will likely become table stakes for premium locks. The Aqara U400 provides a practical, well-integrated option for Apple users seeking seamless access, enhanced security, and deeper HomeKit integration—all without sacrificing control over who can enter and when.
