iOS 18 Brings Hands-Free Smart Lock Unlocking—But Where Are the UWB Locks?

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2025-02-03

A Game-Changing HomeKit Feature with No Compatible Locks—Yet

Apple’s iOS 18 introduces an exciting enhancement for smart home security: hands-free unlocking for HomeKit-compatible smart locks using Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology. This upgrade builds upon Apple’s existing Home Key feature, which currently relies on NFC, requiring users to tap their iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock their doors. With UWB, unlocking becomes entirely automatic—no need to take your phone out of your pocket.

However, there’s a significant catch: no smart lock on the market currently supports UWB. Apple’s announcement has left users eager for this seamless unlocking experience, but manufacturers are still playing catch-up.

The State of UWB Smart Locks

  • Existing Locks Don’t Support UWB: Major smart lock manufacturers—including Aqara, U-tec, Yale, August, Level, Lockly, and SwitchBot—confirmed that none of their current products support Ultra Wideband technology.
  • Manufacturers Are Exploring the Tech: Several companies are considering adding UWB to future models, but only U-tec has confirmed a UWB-enabled lock in development. Their next-generation Ultraloq smart lock is expected in Q4 2025.
  • Schlage Confirms Development Plans: Schlage, a leading name in smart locks, has stated they are working on a new product that will support Apple’s hands-free unlocking. However, no details on its release timeline have been provided.
  • Apple’s UWB Integration Isn’t New: Apple has included UWB chips in iPhones since the iPhone 11, enhancing precision tracking and connectivity with compatible accessories like AirTags and the HomePod Mini.

Despite the promising potential of this feature, the timeline for UWB smart locks hitting the market remains uncertain. Until manufacturers launch new models, users will have to wait to experience truly hands-free unlocking.

What Undercode Says: The Challenges and Future of UWB Smart Locks

The of UWB-based unlocking in iOS 18 marks a major step forward for HomeKit and smart security. However, the lack of compatible devices exposes deeper issues in the smart home industry’s adoption of new technologies.

1. Why Aren’t UWB Smart Locks Available Yet?

The delay in UWB-compatible smart locks boils down to cost, demand, and development timelines.

  • Hardware Upgrades: Adding a UWB chip to smart locks requires significant design changes, testing, and certification, leading to higher manufacturing costs.
  • Market Uncertainty: Smart lock companies may be hesitant to invest in UWB unless there is clear consumer demand and adoption.
  • Apple’s Ecosystem Dependence: UWB unlocking is currently limited to Apple’s HomeKit ecosystem. Manufacturers may prefer cross-platform solutions (e.g., Matter) before committing to UWB.
  1. How UWB Compares to NFC and Bluetooth Unlocking

| Feature | NFC-Based Home Key | Bluetooth Unlocking | UWB Hands-Free Unlocking |

|–|||-|

| Security | High | Moderate | High |
| Speed | Fast (tap required) | Slower (connectivity issues) | Instantaneous |
| Convenience | Requires physical tap | Sometimes unreliable | Fully automatic |

UWB provides faster and more reliable proximity-based unlocking compared to Bluetooth and NFC. However, it requires both the lock and phone to support the technology, which limits adoption.

3. When Can We Expect UWB Smart Locks?

– 2025 Likely for First Releases:

  • Schlage’s Commitment Hints at Competition: With Schlage confirming a UWB-compatible lock in development, we might see announcements from other big players like August, Yale, or Level soon.
  • Apple’s Push Could Accelerate Adoption: If Apple promotes UWB unlocking heavily in future iPhones and updates, smart lock makers may be pressured to adopt the technology faster.
  1. Will UWB Become the Future Standard for Smart Locks?

While UWB is clearly superior in terms of hands-free convenience, its adoption will depend on:

  • Pricing: UWB-enabled locks will likely launch at a premium price, potentially limiting initial adoption.
  • Matter Support: If future UWB locks work seamlessly across HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Home, adoption could skyrocket.
  • User Trust: Security and reliability concerns must be addressed before consumers fully embrace automatic unlocking.

Final Thoughts

Apple’s move to integrate UWB into HomeKit locks is an exciting innovation, but the industry isn’t ready—yet. As manufacturers race to develop compatible devices, the next two years will determine whether UWB unlocking becomes a smart home standard or just another niche feature. 🚪🔐

References:

Reported By: https://9to5mac.com/2024/06/19/ios-18-home-app-hands-free-door-unlock/
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