Overview
- The Verge reports the hands‑free Unlock on Approach feature worked reliably in real‑world testing, offering quicker entry than Bluetooth‑based systems.
- Compatibility includes iPhone 11 or later on iOS 18.5+ and Apple Watch Series 6 or later on watchOS 11.5+, excluding iPhone SE (2nd/3rd gen) and iPhone 16e that lack a UWB chip.
- As a Matter‑over‑Thread device, the lock needs a Thread border router for Home integration, such as Apple TV 4K or HomePod models.
- Access options also include fingerprint, touchscreen passcodes, NFC/Home Key, Bluetooth via the Aqara app, and a physical key, with UWB angle‑of‑approach checks to avoid accidental unlocks.
- The lock is available now for about $270 via Amazon in the U.S. and Canada and at select Apple stores in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, with U.S. Apple Store availability expected later this month and Aliro‑ready positioning for broader support.