Hi, there’s no requirement for a hub unless you want remote access to the lock, amongst other things. If you are using using HomeKit, then you already have remote access. Having it paired to a hub allows you to access the lock, create and manage passcodes all remotely, as well as include the lock in Aqara automations.
I know it's weird, but I love how this lock sounds! From the code input and access granted and denied tones to the whirl of the motor. There is just something satisfying about it. I do like the fingerprint module and HomeKey is BOSS, but I do wish they had opted for Thread connectivity. THanks for the video Simon!
Appreciate the comment D. It’s entirely possible that the Bluetooth chip is of the type that’s upgradable to Thread, but I guess we’ll have to see if that transpires.
Great and detailed video. Thank you! One question: can you manually set, in interval of minutes, when the door auto locks after unlocking it (if you were to set it to auto lock)? I commented on your other video re the Aqara A100pro zigbee and it did not have this ability so I shelved it. My use case: I get a lot of deliveries and I need to unlock my door manually via app/HK when I get a delivery so that the delivery guy opens the door and places the package. I can’t have the lock auto lock in a few seconds as typically the delivery guys will let me know they are at the door when they are a minute or two away and it takes them another minute or two to figure out which door they need to open. I need to unlock the door and it should only auto lock after X number of minutes. Hoping to figure this out before thee coupon expires. Have two in the cart! Thanks again
Hi, the Auto Lock feature locks the door as soon as it’s closed, I did check to see if you could create an automation that would delay the U100 from locking after several minutes. however, it seems you can’t create a custom automation that will lock the door after a set amount of minutes of your choosing, based on you unlocking the door from HomeKit. Strangely you can create an automation of the door is unlocked via Google or Amazon, but not HomeKit. I’ll see if I can figure out a way though, as there must be a workaround. The only thing you could do in the interim is to issue a passcode to the delivery driver, or unlock it a few minutes before he arrives, then manually (remotely) lock it once you’ve got the heads up for delivery. If you have the G4 video doorbell, there may be further options.
@@homekitnews thanks for your reply. Does that mean that if I have auto-lock on and I unlock the lock from the app, it will remain unlocked until someone opens the door and closes it again?
Let me check to see if that’s the case, I’ll get back to you in a few minutes. Update: ok, so if you unlock the door in whatever way you choose (probably remotely in your case I assume), then even with Auto Lock enabled, the U100 will not automatically lock until some has opened the door, then subsequently closed it again, so that may be the ideal solution for you.
@@homekitnews Thanks again for your help here and with the A100. Given the inability to set a specific interval in minutes for the auto-lock to trigger, no passage mode (for the A100 only), and inability to issue passcodes that only work during specific times/days, will have to pass on these Aqara locks. Will stick to my Yale Assure Lock/level - they have everything but HomeKey and the app is clunky but I never use it through the app anyway. Hopefully Aqara updates with these features on the software end at some point.
Shane Whatley mentioned in his review that more granular control options of the passcodes (day and time of day) were being developed, but given they’ve had around 18 months to figure out something that other lock manufacturers have been able to do for ages, I can’t see it ever happening.
If you don’t have/use an Aqara hub, the normal HomeKit integration uses Bluetooth to connect to an Apple Home Hub (Apple TV, HomePod/Mini), and your phone if it’s nearby. You can also connect it to an Aqara hub via Zigbee, which also exposes the lock to HomeKit, which then doesn’t require Bluetooth. However, if your Aqara hub connects to HomeKit using Matter, then Apple HomeKey functionality is lost.
This lock connects to Google via an Aqara hub, so an Aqara hub is required from the outset for Google integration. No other Zigbee hubs will work. However, you don’t need a hub if you use it with Apple HomeKit, as the Bluetooth inside the lock connects to an Apple Home hub (HomePod, Apple TV etc) which give me you remote access to the lock via the HomeKit framework.
It appears, based on other reviews I’ve seen, that it’s not a standard deadbolt, so it may be difficult to rekey. Aqara does suggest in the help and feedback section of the app, that rekeying the lock may void any warranty “…Your disassembly of Smart Lock U100 is construed as your agreement to waive the maintenance service of Aqara.”
This lock is almost perfect except I need it to accept 4-10 digit user codes. I live in a condo that assigns me a 5 digit code as a passkey, I can not use the U100 until I can enter a 5 digit user code.
Nice thorough review, thanks - sub'd. I do have a question. Apple has been claiming to add the "HomeKey" share feature since ~IOS 16. I do notice that I need an Apple Hub to have remote access for Homekit and plan on purchasing Apple TV 4k. Will I be able to share the HomeKey with the household if I add the hub? Thanks again!
Hi, thanks for subscribing, appreciate it. Unfortunately sharing a HomeKey digital key has still not become a reality in HomeKit, so maybe it’ll finally arrive with iOS17. As regards remote access via HomeKit, yes you do need a Home Hub. I’d say an Apple TV (128gb) would be a solid choice, although a Home Hub is not required for everyone to use and have their own HomeKey in your home - as long as they’ve been added to your HomeKit home first. I still think a Home Hub is essential though, for automations and remote access alone.
is it possible to power the lock entirely via the usb-c forever? is any functionality limited doing it this way? (any usb-c on the inside part of the lock?)
Hi, the USB-C port is only on the outside (for emergency use) so even if it were possible to permanently power the lock, it would be impractical due to it being on the outside, as well as being a security risk.
The U100 is listed on the China server as an available accessory, although I can’t say for sure if you can add the international model to the Chinese server or not.
If you’re using it in HomeKit, then remote access via any HomeKit app is possible, via any HomeKit Home Hub. Without a hub, you don’t have remote access if you’re only using Aqara.
You just need to scan the HomeKit QR code from within the settings for the lock within Aqara app or directly in the Apple Home app to add it to HomeKit. Then just follow the onscreen instructions.
@@jakryk what Aqara hub you have shouldn’t impact Apple HomeKey, although if you’re adding the lock to Aqara and pairing it with a hub that is connected to HomeKit using Matter, this will be why it’s not showing the HomeKey option, as exposing the lock to HomeKit via Matter removes that option. Maybe try resetting the lock, and add it to HomeKit first, where you should get it to add to HomeKey. Then add to Aqara after that. Remember, adding the lock to a hub is optional.
I don't want to buy the Apple HomeKit. Why can't I just use my Iphone; while the phone is in my pocket, it will just unlock the door?? Also using the Apple Watch in the same way.
Thanks rhomboid (great name). Yes it’s more for the US, but the good news is they’re going to release a retrofit version for EU/UK doors, similar to Nuki lock and the Yale Linus, which should have many of the same features.
@@homekitnews good to hear that, I can’t wait for the review. I found out the best lock can fit my door without extra work and modifications is the Nuki Lock or Yale Linus.
I did use the Nuki for a couple of years, and it worked pretty well, but if the forthcoming Aqara model has the options that the U100 has, then I think it’ll be a way better lock than either the Nuki or Linus.
Hello, to be able to setup the fingerprint you need the Aqara Hub?
I did not understood that part well during the setup. Thank you!
Hi, there’s no requirement for a hub unless you want remote access to the lock, amongst other things. If you are using using HomeKit, then you already have remote access. Having it paired to a hub allows you to access the lock, create and manage passcodes all remotely, as well as include the lock in Aqara automations.
I know it's weird, but I love how this lock sounds! From the code input and access granted and denied tones to the whirl of the motor. There is just something satisfying about it. I do like the fingerprint module and HomeKey is BOSS, but I do wish they had opted for Thread connectivity. THanks for the video Simon!
Appreciate the comment D. It’s entirely possible that the Bluetooth chip is of the type that’s upgradable to Thread, but I guess we’ll have to see if that transpires.
Great and detailed video. Thank you! One question: can you manually set, in interval of minutes, when the door auto locks after unlocking it (if you were to set it to auto lock)? I commented on your other video re the Aqara A100pro zigbee and it did not have this ability so I shelved it.
My use case: I get a lot of deliveries and I need to unlock my door manually via app/HK when I get a delivery so that the delivery guy opens the door and places the package. I can’t have the lock auto lock in a few seconds as typically the delivery guys will let me know they are at the door when they are a minute or two away and it takes them another minute or two to figure out which door they need to open. I need to unlock the door and it should only auto lock after X number of minutes. Hoping to figure this out before thee coupon expires. Have two in the cart! Thanks again
Hi, the Auto Lock feature locks the door as soon as it’s closed, I did check to see if you could create an automation that would delay the U100 from locking after several minutes. however, it seems you can’t create a custom automation that will lock the door after a set amount of minutes of your choosing, based on you unlocking the door from HomeKit. Strangely you can create an automation of the door is unlocked via Google or Amazon, but not HomeKit. I’ll see if I can figure out a way though, as there must be a workaround. The only thing you could do in the interim is to issue a passcode to the delivery driver, or unlock it a few minutes before he arrives, then manually (remotely) lock it once you’ve got the heads up for delivery. If you have the G4 video doorbell, there may be further options.
@@homekitnews thanks for your reply. Does that mean that if I have auto-lock on and I unlock the lock from the app, it will remain unlocked until someone opens the door and closes it again?
Let me check to see if that’s the case, I’ll get back to you in a few minutes. Update: ok, so if you unlock the door in whatever way you choose (probably remotely in your case I assume), then even with Auto Lock enabled, the U100 will not automatically lock until some has opened the door, then subsequently closed it again, so that may be the ideal solution for you.
@@homekitnews Thanks again for your help here and with the A100. Given the inability to set a specific interval in minutes for the auto-lock to trigger, no passage mode (for the A100 only), and inability to issue passcodes that only work during specific times/days, will have to pass on these Aqara locks. Will stick to my Yale Assure Lock/level - they have everything but HomeKey and the app is clunky but I never use it through the app anyway. Hopefully Aqara updates with these features on the software end at some point.
Shane Whatley mentioned in his review that more granular control options of the passcodes (day and time of day) were being developed, but given they’ve had around 18 months to figure out something that other lock manufacturers have been able to do for ages, I can’t see it ever happening.
Does anyone know of a Deadbolt Lock Cylinder brand/type that will work with the keys provided in the U100 installation kit?
I always check your channel first for comprehensive reviews on the latest Apple home compatible products 🫡
Thanks for the support, it's always appreciated!
Same!
@@jgabesamis My man
Is the lock itself bound to HomeKit, or does it use a an Aqara hub? Will I need it close to an ATV or HomePod for HomeKit to work?
If you don’t have/use an Aqara hub, the normal HomeKit integration uses Bluetooth to connect to an Apple Home Hub (Apple TV, HomePod/Mini), and your phone if it’s nearby. You can also connect it to an Aqara hub via Zigbee, which also exposes the lock to HomeKit, which then doesn’t require Bluetooth. However, if your Aqara hub connects to HomeKit using Matter, then Apple HomeKey functionality is lost.
Interesting lock. Can this lock give remote access with a hub other than aqara’s? I have a couple of google hubs.
This lock connects to Google via an Aqara hub, so an Aqara hub is required from the outset for Google integration. No other Zigbee hubs will work. However, you don’t need a hub if you use it with Apple HomeKit, as the Bluetooth inside the lock connects to an Apple Home hub (HomePod, Apple TV etc) which give me you remote access to the lock via the HomeKit framework.
What type of key cylinder does it use? Want to know if I will be able to easily rekey it to my existing set of house keys
It appears, based on other reviews I’ve seen, that it’s not a standard deadbolt, so it may be difficult to rekey. Aqara does suggest in the help and feedback section of the app, that rekeying the lock may void any warranty “…Your disassembly of Smart Lock U100 is construed as your agreement to waive the maintenance service of Aqara.”
This lock is almost perfect except I need it to accept 4-10 digit user codes. I live in a condo that assigns me a 5 digit code as a passkey, I can not use the U100 until I can enter a 5 digit user code.
Nice thorough review, thanks - sub'd. I do have a question. Apple has been claiming to add the "HomeKey" share feature since ~IOS 16. I do notice that I need an Apple Hub to have remote access for Homekit and plan on purchasing Apple TV 4k. Will I be able to share the HomeKey with the household if I add the hub? Thanks again!
Hi, thanks for subscribing, appreciate it. Unfortunately sharing a HomeKey digital key has still not become a reality in HomeKit, so maybe it’ll finally arrive with iOS17. As regards remote access via HomeKit, yes you do need a Home Hub. I’d say an Apple TV (128gb) would be a solid choice, although a Home Hub is not required for everyone to use and have their own HomeKey in your home - as long as they’ve been added to your HomeKit home first. I still think a Home Hub is essential though, for automations and remote access alone.
@@homekitnews Thanks, purchased the 4k 128. Still need to play with it.
@@rhosk I don’t know if they still do it, but previously if you bought an Apple TV you got a period of free Apple TV+ as well.
@@homekitnews I have 'Apple One' with Verizon, the whole Apple package, for once a beneficial package!
How did you set custom mp3 sounds on your M1S? 😮
Hi, this is the second Gen M1S, so the original model isn’t capable of custom audio unfortunately.
@@homekitnews do you know if there is also a 2nd Gen M1S for China server? Thanks
Yes, there is a second gen for China, but strangely I haven’t seen it for sale for a long time. There was also an EU one that may still be on sale.
Any idea how to add this to my mainland China region Aqara app?
Did you buy the international model?
is it possible to power the lock entirely via the usb-c forever? is any functionality limited doing it this way? (any usb-c on the inside part of the lock?)
Hi, the USB-C port is only on the outside (for emergency use) so even if it were possible to permanently power the lock, it would be impractical due to it being on the outside, as well as being a security risk.
@@homekitnews Really appreciate your replies and reviews as always! Love the channel!
@@kplau79 thanks! Always happy to help.
Very good review thanks
homekit not working, it says not responding and not connected but shows connected via the app, any help?
Do you have an Apple Home Hub and is it near enough to the lock?
Does the color match the G4 Doorbell?
Yes, if you purchase them from the same region. The US doorbell and the US lock use the same colour.
May I know if Aqara u100 connects to a server in China?
The U100 is listed on the China server as an available accessory, although I can’t say for sure if you can add the international model to the Chinese server or not.
nice looking lock!
Thanks 👍
So this lock, without the hub, does not have Wi-Fi and therefore can not be remotely controlled?
Actually now that I ask, I assume your Apple TV as the HomeKit hub could control the device remotely if not in Bluetooth range?
If you’re using it in HomeKit, then remote access via any HomeKit app is possible, via any HomeKit Home Hub. Without a hub, you don’t have remote access if you’re only using Aqara.
That’s correct.
Perfect, thanks so much for the information and review! I’ll definitely be checking your other videos.
@@Codyak13 you’re welcome. If you have any further questions feel free to ask away.
I wish you'd taken it slower when adding to HomeKit. I can't quite follow what you are doing 😞
You just need to scan the HomeKit QR code from within the settings for the lock within Aqara app or directly in the Apple Home app to add it to HomeKit. Then just follow the onscreen instructions.
@@homekitnewsBut when I added it to my Home app I didn't get a prompt to add it to HomeKey.
Which model of iPhone do you have?
@@homekitnews 12, regular . IOS 17.3. I’m not sure I have the right Aqara hub, so I’m getting one that support Matter. I have an Apple Mini Pod.
@@jakryk what Aqara hub you have shouldn’t impact Apple HomeKey, although if you’re adding the lock to Aqara and pairing it with a hub that is connected to HomeKit using Matter, this will be why it’s not showing the HomeKey option, as exposing the lock to HomeKit via Matter removes that option. Maybe try resetting the lock, and add it to HomeKit first, where you should get it to add to HomeKey. Then add to Aqara after that. Remember, adding the lock to a hub is optional.
I don't want to buy the Apple HomeKit. Why can't I just use my Iphone; while the phone is in my pocket, it will just unlock the door?? Also using the Apple Watch in the same way.
You can do that. You don’t have to ‘buy’ Apple HomeKit, it already comes with iOS.
Well done
Amazing review! Sadly too US-focused and not especially attractive
Thanks rhomboid (great name). Yes it’s more for the US, but the good news is they’re going to release a retrofit version for EU/UK doors, similar to Nuki lock and the Yale Linus, which should have many of the same features.
@@homekitnews Lovely thank you! 😊
@@homekitnews good to hear that, I can’t wait for the review. I found out the best lock can fit my door without extra work and modifications is the Nuki Lock or Yale Linus.
I did use the Nuki for a couple of years, and it worked pretty well, but if the forthcoming Aqara model has the options that the U100 has, then I think it’ll be a way better lock than either the Nuki or Linus.
@@homekitnews that’s why I’m waiting for it. Or Nuki my bring something new and less noisy. Any idea when Aqara may bring it?