Apple’s Home Key seems like a practical thing: with the component of the in-house smart home system HomeKit, it has been possible to open door locks using an iPhone or Apple Watch since iOS 15. To do this, you simply hold your cell phone or watch in front of the lock, as is also the case with the car key feature on more and more car models. The problem: that’s been the case until now Almost no manufacturerswhich supported Home Key – and the products were only for the US market. For example, Nuki, an Austrian smart lock provider, which is popular in Europe Operating since 2022 on a solution. Now a Chinese company is going even further: this Aqara U200 From the manufacturer of the same name Belongs to the Xiaomi company complexAlready available on Amazon.
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Installation is quick and easy
The U200 is a combination of an upgradeable matter lock with a PIN pad that also includes a fingerprint sensor. It was part of a breakthrough Kickstarter Campaign Evolved – with the clear objective of adaptability Digital house key from Apple. Shortly before the start of sales it was said that the time for certification was very short; however, Aqara managed to catch them and the devices that are now on sale have this feature.
As is the case with most smart locks, it connects to a regular door lock. There are different options for this depending on your home setup. The most common scenario is that a key inserted inside is transferred by the smart lock. However, knobs and other types of locks can also be used. The U200 has an integrated battery that can be recharged via USB-C as well as a rotary knob so you can manually operate the lock from the inside. The second part of the unit, the PIN pad and fingerprint sensor, is connected to the lock via Bluetooth and powered by four removable AA batteries.
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According to Aqara, the U200 is compatible with different systems for which you need a hub depending on the application. First of all, you can use the lock as part of the Aqara home system, including its own app. HomeKit, Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung Smartthings and IFTTT are also supported. Thanks to Thread, you can integrate the lock directly into HomeKit via the Home app. This requires a Thread border router, i.e. an existing Apple TV, HomePod mini or HomePod 2 with Thread.
When you submit the lock, the Home app also offers to create a home key. Initially it was unclear whether it was possible to operate the lock without storing a PIN code or fingerprint. However, it seems clear that the home key comparison (via NFC) takes place on the PIN pad unit, not on the lock, which is located on the back of the door. The Home Key offers different ways to work. You can use the Express mode to automatically activate the key when you get close to the lock. Alternatively, Face ID, Touch ID or code is possible for security. The home key can also be given to other family members. HomeKit also offers automation. If desired, the lock automatically locks when you close the door or when you leave the apartment. The Aqara U200 costs 270 euros at the moment. The comparable Nuki Pro without home key and PIN pad is available for 289 euros, it now also supports Matter and is said to have longer battery life.
(B.Sc.)
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