Hands-Free HomeKit Smart Locks Stalled: What You Need to Know About UWB Technology in iOS 18

Discover the exciting new hands-free HomeKit feature in iOS 18, but learn why you might have to wait for compatible locks to hit the market.

11 months ago

Summary of HomeKit Feature in iOS 18

New Feature: iOS 18 introduces hands-free support for unlocking smart locks using Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology.
Current Limitation: No UWB-enabled smart locks are currently available on the market, making the feature unusable until such devices are released.
Manufacturers' Responses:
- Several manufacturers, including Aqara, U-tec, Yale, August, Level, Lockly, and SwitchBot, confirmed their existing locks do not support UWB.
- U-tec is developing a UWB lock expected to launch in Q4 2023.
Home Key Technology: Currently, Home Key uses NFC technology for tapping to unlock doors. UWB aims to make the process truly hands-free through proximity detection.
Apple's UWB Integration: Apple has included UWB chips in iPhones starting from the iPhone 11.
Future Prospects: Hands-free unlock with UWB is expected to be a significant improvement once compatible locks become available.
Schlage Statement: Schlage (Allegion Home) is developing a new product that will support Apple’s hands-free unlock feature, with more details expected later in the year.