The Aqara U400 smart lock, the first to support ultra-wideband-powered Apple Home Key functionality, has seen its price slashed during Amazon’s Big Spring Sale. Now available for just $229.49 (originally $269.99), it promises hands-free unlocking and reliability that even our reviewer Jennifer Pattison Tuohy couldn’t fault.

Unlike other smart locks, the U400 can be unlocked via Home Key, a mix of Bluetooth and ultra-wideband chips, without needing an extra app. Users have several options to open their doors, including a code on its touchscreen keypad, fingerprint recognition or even a regular key.

This is not just any smart lock; it’s Matter-over-Thread certified, allowing seamless integration with various smart home ecosystems such as Apple HomeKit. However, users will need a Thread border router for the best experience, from recent Apple TV models to the second-generation HomePod and its smaller sibling, the HomePod Mini.

While the U400’s price drop is exciting, what really makes it stand out are the reliability and ease of use. Jennifer Pattison Tuohy noted in her review that hands-free unlocking isn’t new, but this implementation is one of the most reliable yet. Whether you’re an Apple loyalist or just want a smart lock with top-tier security features, the U400 could be worth considering.

In a world where sci-fi dreams are slowly becoming our reality, the Aqara U400 might just be the key to unlocking that future – literally and metaphorically. And at this sale price? It’s certainly not bad for a piece of tech that feels like you’ve stepped into the future.