Aqara launched a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign Tuesday for its new Smart Lock U200. Built on the Thread networking protocol and native to the Matter standard, the lock will integrate with many smart home devices. But its compatibility with smart-home platforms like HomeKit — and its support for Home Key in particular — will come from future software updates.
Aqara Smart Lock U200
Users’ access options with the new smart lock include fingerprints, one-time and recurring PIN codes, remote access via mobile apps, voice assistant commands to Aqara NFC cards and physical keys. The new lock is an update on the company’s U100.
And Home Key support is coming soon, the company said:
Aqara is also working to add the HomeKey support to the U200 lock, which allows iOS users to unlock by simply tapping a compatible iPhone and Apple Watch. The U200 will be one of the first Matter-compatible locks to support HomeKey unlocking, and the Aqara team is sparing no time on developing and testing before delivering the optimized experiences.
Easy installation
The U200’s retrofit design makes it easy to install on most doors in North America and Europe, Aqara said. Using provided adapters, the lock attaches to existing mechanisms like U.S. deadbolts and European cylinders.
Keyless entry methods and traditional keys work with the new lock. It’s enhanced by easy access sharing, remote access control and real-time lock status updates.
Aqara noted other U200 attributes:
The U200 lock runs on rechargeable Li-Ion batteries, while its wireless keypad can either be powered by a pack of four AAA batteries or wired to the existing doorbell wire (12V-24V DC power supply). Thanks to the power-efficient Thread protocol, the U200 lock features a battery life of up to 6 months between each charge4. Moreover, the wireless keypad boasts an IPX5 rating and withstands extreme heat and cold (-18℃/0℉ to 66℃/151℉), ensuring endurance under any climate.
Key aspect of a smart home
Aqara’s new Thread- and Matter-enabled lock works with other smart home accessories. So that enables automations as well as customization.
The company gave some examples, including “to disarm the home security system automatically when the U200 is unlocked by a family member, or to activate the indoor camera and the video doorbell after consecutive failed attempts to unlock the door.”
Aqara Smart Lock U200 release notes: gradual platform integration
Aqara made the following notes about U200 functionality:
The U200 can be paired to the Aqara Home app using Bluetooth or the upcoming Aqara Hub M3. Compatibility with third-party Matter-enabled platforms (e.g., Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, Home Assistant) is expected to roll out in waves, and may not be available by the shipment of pre-ordered units.
Home Key unlocking support is currently under development, and is expected to become available via a subsequent OTA update after the lock receives certain certification.
Limitation applies. Please check the Kickstarter page or consult Aqara support for detailed guidelines on the U200 lock compatibility.
The 6-month battery life is based on the assumption of 8 cycles of fingerprint/NFC unlocking and locking per day.
The lock comes in three color options: black, white or silver.
Price: $249.99 $169 – $209
Where to preorder: Kickstarter
Source: Aqara
