The $270 Aqara Smart Lock U400 offers advanced hands-free unlocking for Apple users by utilizing ultra wideband technology, alongside broad compatibility through the Matter and Thread smart home standards.

Key points

• The U400 features hands-free unlocking via Apple Home Key and ultra wideband (UWB) signal integration for iPhone and Apple Watch users.
• It supports the Matter smart home standard and uses Thread networking, allowing it to function without a proprietary Aqara hub.
• Multiple entry methods include a fingerprint scanner, backlit keypad, NFC-based digital keys, and a physical keyhole.
• The device is powered by a USB-C rechargeable battery pack, which Aqara estimates will last up to six months on a single charge.
• While currently optimized for Apple ecosystems, the lock also supports Samsung Galaxy tap-to-unlock features via the Aliro standard.

Why it matters: The integration of ultra wideband technology represents a significant step forward in convenience for smart home security, offering more precise proximity detection than traditional Bluetooth-based locks. By adopting the Matter standard, this device provides consumers with greater flexibility to integrate hardware across different smart home platforms without being locked into a single manufacturer's ecosystem.