Apple to Introduce Contactless Smart Lock Feature in iOS 18

TapTechNews June 20th. Apple announced last week that in the iOS 18 official version updated this autumn, a contactless smart lock opening function will be brought to AppleHome.

The function mainly uses the U1 Ultra-wideband chip in the iPhone and AppleWatch. Users no longer need operations such as clicking, and the smart lock will automatically open as long as the user approaches the door.

Unfortunately, the existing HomeKey smart lock products do not have the relevant hardware to support this function, and none of them support the contactless unlocking function, and also the current mainstream products do not support this function yet. The relevant products may debut before the end of 2024.

This new function is part of HomeKey, which is a function of the AppleHome smart home platform. It allows you to unlock a compatible door lock by simply tapping your iPhone or AppleWatch.

TapTechNews attaches the usage situation as follows: Users do not need to take out their phones or tap their watches against the door lock to open it. If the user is wearing an AppleWatch or has their iPhone in their pocket and has unlocked the door lock within the past 24 hours, then when the user approaches within 6 feet of the smart lock, the door lock will automatically unlock.