The New Generation of Smart Locks Will Turn Your Phone into a “House Key”

Unlocking a door quickly and hands-free is a convenience that anyone looking to make their home smarter can appreciate.

Thanks to Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, now being integrated into smart locks, your door could open automatically as you approach.

Currently used in digital car keys and products like AirTags, UWB is a radar-based technology that can precisely locate devices down to a few centimeters.

Ultra-Precise Location Tracking

With real-time accuracy, UWB technology enables smart locks to interact with your phone or smartwatch as you approach the door. The lock will automatically disengage without requiring you to take out your phone, enter a passcode, scan your fingerprint, or use a physical key. To function properly, both the lock and your device must be equipped with a UWB chip.

The distance at which the lock disengages depends on how the manufacturer implements UWB technology, but for most models, the range is set to about one meter.

Beyond automatic unlocking, these smart locks offer additional entry methods, such as a digital keypad, NFC unlocking, and fingerprint recognition. Naturally, they also come with an app for remote control.

For added security, these locks include a motion sensor that detects speed and approach angles. The door will only unlock at the right moment, depending on your approach speed from outside. It won’t unlock if you are moving away, if you stop before reaching the door, or if you approach from inside.

Tech Giants Supporting UWB

Several major companies, including Apple and Samsung, have incorporated UWB support into their smartphone and smartwatch operating systems.

Apple introduced this technology with iOS 18, while Samsung has announced plans to support digital home keys via NFC and UWB later this year. This is a promising sign that the technology is ready for widespread adoption. Now, all we need are smart locks that are fully compatible with this innovation for it to become mainstream.