Aqara’s new smart lock is the first to use Apple’s hands-free unlocking

Alex Choros - Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor

Last updated 12 January 2026

Smart home device manufacturer Aqara has become the first company to launch a smart lock that supports Apple's hands-free unlocking technology.

When an authorised user approaches the deadbolt lock - dubbed the U400 - with an iPhone or Apple Watch that supports ultra wideband, it will automatically unlock. Aqara says the tech is precise enough that the door won't unlock if you're inside your house, for example. Supported devices include all mainline iPhones from the iPhone 11 and up, Apple Watch Series 6, and up, and all Apple Watch Ultra models.

iPhone SE models, the iPhone 16e, and all Apple Watch SE models don't support ultra wideband and, as such, don't work with hands-free unlocking.

iPhones and Apple Watches that don't support ultra wideband can still unlock the U400 with Home Key, which requires a tap of the device on the lock instead. Users will need an Apple TV or HomePod to act as a hub for the U400.

In addition to robust Apple ecosystem support, the U400 also works with Google Home, Alexa, and SmartThings. It is also Aliro-ready, which will allow Android users with compatible devices to use hands-free unlocking in the future. Aqara says Samsung Wallet support will be added in the first quarter of the year.

The U400 also supports unlocking via PIN, fingerprint, NFC tag, and with a physical key. Aqara says the battery will last for up to six months.

The U400 will be available to pre-order through Aqara's Australian webstore from January 16, with orders set to ship out from February. Orders made through Aqara's webstore are bundled with an M100 dongle that works as a Thread router and Zigbee hub. The bundle will be priced at $399 until February 17 as an early bird special, after which it will increase to $549.

The U400 is also available in select Apple Stores and through the Apple website for $489.95, and it is already in stock. The model sold through Apple does not include the M100 dongle, but comes with a second rechargeable battery.

Alex Choros

Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor | X | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn

Alex Choros is the Managing Editor of WhistleOut Australia and an award-winning journalist. He's been writing about consumer technology for over a decade and is an expert on the Australian telco sector, to the point where he knows far too many phone and internet plans by heart. In addition to leading the WhistleOut editorial team, Alex is responsible for ruining the office Sonos with his troubled taste in music.

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