Retrofittable and with Apple Home Key: Aqara launches Smart Lock U200
So far, there has been a lack of retrofit locks with Apple's Home Key in Germany. Chinese provider Aqara is now filling the gap - including additional features.
Aqara U200 with panel for PIN and fingerprint.
(Image: Aqara)
Apple's Home Key sounds like a practical thing: since iOS 15, it has been possible to open door locks using an iPhone or Apple Watch as part of the company's HomeKit smart home system. To do this, you simply hold your phone or watch up to the lock, just like the car key feature for more and more car models. The problem: until now, there were virtually no manufacturers that supported Home Key - and the products were only intended for the US market. The smart lock provider Nuki from Austria, for example, which is popular in Europe, has been working on a solution since 2022. Now a Chinese company is beating it to the punch: the Aqara U200 from the manufacturer of the same name, which is part of the Xiaomi group of companies, is already available on Amazon.
Installation is quick and easy
The U200 is a combination of a retrofittable Matter lock with a PIN pad that also contains a fingerprint sensor. It was developed as part of a successful Kickstarter campaign- with the explicit aim of compatibility with Apple's digital house key. Shortly before the start of sales, it was said that the time for certification was too short; however, Aqara managed to obtain it after all and the devices that are now on sale have the feature.
As is usual with most smart locks, this is attached to the normal door lock. There are various options depending on the setup at home. The most common is probably that a key inserted inside is moved by the smart lock. However, knobs and other types of lock can also be used. The U200 contains an integrated USB-C rechargeable battery and a rotary knob to operate the lock manually from the inside. The second part of the unit, the PIN pad with fingerprint sensor, is connected to the lock via Bluetooth and is powered by four removable AA batteries.
Broad compatibility, waiting for Nuki
According to Aqara, the U200 is compatible with various systems, for which a hub is required depending on the application. Initially, the lock can be used 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, the lock can be integrated directly into HomeKit - via the Home app. This requires a Thread border router, i.e. a current Apple TV with Thread, a HomePod mini or a HomePod 2.
When storing the lock, the Home app also offers to generate a Home Key. Whether it is possible to operate the lock without storing a PIN code or fingerprint initially remained unclear. However, it seems clear that home key matching (via NFC) takes place on the PIN pad unit and not on the lock itself, which is located behind the door. Home Key offers various modes of operation. For example, you can use express mode to activate the key automatically when you come near the lock. Alternatively, Face ID, Touch ID or code can be used for security. The Home Key can also be passed on to other family members. HomeKit also provides for automation. For example, the lock closes automatically when you close the door or when you leave your home. The Aqara U200 currently costs 270 euros. 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 a longer battery life.
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