In a significant breakthrough in home security, touchless smart locks are finally here, eliminating the need for keys, passwords, and even phone-based unlocking methods. At CES 2025, several prominent smart lock companies unveiled their latest innovations, featuring ultra-wideband (UWB) technology that enables passive entry support. This means homeowners can now enter their homes without taking out their phones or performing any additional actions.

The concept of touchless smart locks is not new, but the technology has finally matured to the point where it's becoming a reality. Companies like Schlage, U-tec, and Lockly are leading the charge with their latest products. Schlage's Sense Pro Smart Deadbolt, for instance, comes equipped with a UWB chip that senses the trajectory and motion of a paired smartphone to trigger an unlock. This technology allows for seamless and secure entry, making it feel like magic.

U-tec's Ultraloq Bolt Mission, which was first announced last year, is another notable example. Although it initially lacked support for the Aliro smart access standard backed by Google, Apple, Samsung, and others, the company has now confirmed that it will add Apple Home hands-free unlocking support in Q1 2025. The Lockly Secure Pro, priced at $379.99, also promises Apple's touchless feature and is set to arrive in Q4 2025.

While UWB-powered smart locks are gaining traction, other companies are still exploring alternative unlock technologies. TP-Link's Tapo PalmKey and TCL's Smart Lock D1 Pro, for example, utilize AI-powered palm scanners to recognize vein patterns in users' hands. Meanwhile, SwitchBot's Lock Ultra boasts an impressive 16 different hands-on-something unlocking methods. The diversity of approaches underscores the ongoing experimentation in the smart lock industry.

One of the most significant implications of touchless smart locks is the potential to revolutionize the way we interact with our homes. As the author notes, the experience of unlocking a car door without needing to take out a key or perform any additional actions is now being replicated in the home security space. This shift could have far-reaching consequences for the smart home industry as a whole.

However, it's essential to acknowledge that these locks still need to be tested in real-world scenarios to ensure their reliability and security. As the technology continues to evolve, it's crucial for smart lock companies to prioritize user experience and security above all else. The transformative potential of touchless smart locks is undeniable, and it will be exciting to see how this technology develops in the coming years.

In conclusion, CES 2025 has marked a significant milestone in the evolution of smart locks. With touchless smart locks finally becoming a reality, homeowners can look forward to a more seamless and secure entry experience. As the industry continues to innovate and refine this technology, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the world of smart home security.