Exploring the Future of Touchless Smart Locks in 2025

2024 Innovations in Smart Locks: A Closer Look

Smart lock companies have spent 2024 crafting innovative solutions for securing your home. With options ranging from iPhone-tapping Home Key locks by Aqara to Face ID-style locks from Lockly, the future of home security is here. These advancements promise to redefine convenience and access, but do they feel truly magical?

Seamless Entry: The New Era of Smart Locks

Imagine a smart lock that recognizes you as you approach. No need to fetch keys or press buttons—just pull the handle and gain access, akin to how your car door unlocks. This is the dream for smart home locks, and at CES 2025, many manufacturers are unveiling models with touchless, passive entry solutions. This shift means no more fumbling for RFID fobs or tapping your Apple Watch to unlock your door.

Leading the Way: Schlage and Other Smart Lock Innovations

One of the standout products showcased is the Schlage Sense Pro Smart Deadbolt. This innovative lock is equipped with an ultra-wideband (UWB) chip, enabling it to sense your smartphone's movement and automatically unlock the door as you approach.

U-tec's Ultraloq Bolt Mission

Previously, the credit for incorporating UWB technology in smart locks was given to U-tec's Ultraloq Bolt Mission, which was announced last year but lacked support for Apple's hands-free unlocking. The new Bolt Mission, set to launch in Q1 2025 for $399, promises compatibility with Aliro and Apple Home features for effortless unlocking.

Other Notable Entries: Lockly Secure Pro

The Lockly Secure Pro is another impressive option, priced at $379.99 and expected to be available in Q4. Like the others, it promotes future hands-free unlocking capabilities.

Exploring Non-UWB Methods: What’s Available Now

While UWB technology is gaining traction, many companies continue to explore alternative unlocking methods. For instance:

• TP-Link’s Tapo PalmKey and TCL’s Smart Lock D1 Pro utilize AI to scan vein patterns in hands for secure access.
• The Lockly Styla is focused on aesthetics while still offering robust functionality.
• SwitchBot’s new Lock Ultra offers a whopping 16 different physical unlocking methods.

Future Directions: The Digital Peephole and Beyond

Smart lock manufacturers are experimenting with features like digital peepholes, seen in products such as Lockly Vision Prestige and TCL Smart Lock Ultra. However, the fundamental shift that consumers desire is more akin to the seamless experience we expect from modern vehicles—no need to worry about traditional actions like locking and unlocking.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Smart Locks

The promise of UWB in smart locks offers a tantalizing glimpse into a hands-free future for home security. As we await these devices to hit the market, the real question remains: Can these locks not only function reliably but also provide the transformative security experience users long for? The innovations unveiled at CES 2025 suggest an exciting year ahead for smart lock technology.

Stay tuned for updates on your favorite smart lock brands and their upcoming models! Are you excited about the touchless entry options? Share your thoughts!