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| Aqara Smart Lock U400 shown outside home |
LAS VEGAS — At CES 2026, the smart home security conversation is getting a major upgrade. Aqara is taking center stage with the launch of its flagship Smart Lock U400, a deadbolt designed to marry robust security with unprecedented convenience. The star of the show is its integrated Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology, promising a truly hands-free experience that aims to make fumbling for keys or phones a thing of the past.
While smart locks have grown in popularity, many users still encounter moments where traditional methods seem faster. The U400 directly tackles this friction point. By continuously scanning for authorized UWB-enabled devices like smartphones or smartwatches, the lock can automatically unlock as you approach your door. This isn't just about convenience; it's a security leap. UWB provides precise spatial awareness, differentiating between a device actually at your door versus one several feet away, thereby offering strong resistance to relay attacks—a known vulnerability in some Bluetooth-based systems.
Seamless Integration for Apple and Beyond
At launch, the U400 shines in the Apple ecosystem. It supports Home Key in the Apple Wallet, allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to unlock their door with a simple tap. More impressively, the UWB functionality enables a completely passive experience. You can walk up to your door without ever taking your device out of your pocket or bag, and the lock recognizes you and disengages. A built-in gyroscope can also automatically re-lock the door once it senses it has been closed after entry.
But Aqara emphasizes this is not just a smart lock for an Apple home. Built on Matter over Thread, the U400 is designed for broad compatibility and robust connectivity within a wider smart home. It seamlessly integrates with major platforms including Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Home Assistant. Furthermore, Aqara has announced that Samsung Wallet integration is slated for Q1 2026, bringing the same hands-free UWB convenience to Galaxy smartphone users.
For those who prefer or require alternative methods, the U400 offers a full suite of options: a fingerprint sensor, NFC cards, the Aqara app, and voice commands via assistants. Power comes from a sizable 4880 mAh rechargeable battery, rated for approximately six months of use on a single charge. And for absolute peace of mind, a physical key override is included as a fail-safe.
Pricing and Availability
Following its CES debut, the Aqara Smart Lock U400 is available for order at $269.99. You can find full specifications and purchase it directly from the manufacturer's Aqara U400 product page or via major retailers like Amazon. Wider availability, including at the Apple Store, is expected in the coming weeks.
The U400 represents a significant step toward a future where accessing your home is both effortless and highly secure, blending cutting-edge wireless technology with the practical demands of everyday life.