Aqara Unveils U400 Smart Lock with UWB at CES

Aqara, a leading smart home device manufacturer, unveiled its latest innovation, the Smart Lock U400, at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The device, available immediately for $269.99, introduces hands-free door unlocking using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology integrated with Apple Home Key, allowing authorized users to access their homes without physical interaction as they approach the entrance.

The U400 achieves precise location detection through UWB's time-of-flight and angle-of-arrival measurements, pinpointing a user's position to within centimeters. This ensures the lock activates only when someone nears the door from the outside, preventing unintended unlocks during indoor movement or when passing by. Officials from Aqara emphasized that UWB's resistance to relay attacks provides enhanced security compared to Bluetooth-based systems, which rely on signal strength and are more vulnerable to interception.

For Apple ecosystem users, the lock pairs seamlessly with an iPhone or Apple Watch stored in a pocket or bag, eliminating the need for tapping or authentication. It requires a Thread-enabled Matter controller, such as an Apple TV or HomePod, to function within...