ULTRALOQ Launches UWB Smart Lock for Apple Home
ULTRALOQ has introduced the Bolt Mission, a smart lock that uses ultra‑wideband (UWB) technology to detect when a user approaches a door and unlocks automatically, bypassing the unreliability of GPS‑based systems. The company also released the Bolt Pro and Latch 5 Pro, both Aliro‑Certified tap‑to‑u…
By Felo News Desk · Published
ULTRALOQ’s latest lineup of smart locks marks a significant step forward for hands‑free entry. The company’s newest model, the Bolt Mission, leverages ultra‑wideband (UWB) technology to detect the direction and distance of a user’s approach and unlock the door automatically, eliminating the inconsistencies that have plagued GPS‑based auto‑unlock systems. Alongside the Mission, ULTRALOQ has released the Bolt Pro and Latch 5 Pro, both Aliro‑Certified tap‑to‑unlock devices that work across Apple Wallet, Samsung Wallet, and Matter‑enabled ecosystems.
What’s New with the Bolt Mission?
Unlike traditional smart locks that rely on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or GPS to determine proximity, the Bolt Mission incorporates UWB, a radio technology that offers centimeter‑level accuracy. This precision allows the lock to determine not only that an authorized iPhone is nearby, but also whether the user is approaching the door from the outside or inside the home. The lock processes this data locally, meaning no cloud connection or home hub is required for the auto‑unlock feature.
The UWB system works in tandem with BLE and a built‑in radar‑based presence sensor. When the lock detects a UWB signal from an authorized device, it cross‑checks the direction and distance data. If the device is moving toward the door from the outside, the lock unlocks automatically. If the device is already inside the house or approaching from the wrong side, the lock remains locked, preventing accidental or malicious entry.
How Does UWB Compare to Bluetooth?
Bluetooth has long been the default for many smart locks, but its range and accuracy can be problematic. BLE can detect a device within a few meters, but it cannot reliably distinguish between a user walking toward the door or simply walking past it. UWB, on the other hand, measures the time it takes for a radio pulse to travel between the lock and the device, providing precise distance and direction data. This makes UWB a more robust solution for hands‑free unlocking, especially in environments where GPS signals are weak or unreliable.
Users who have interacted with UWB in Apple’s AirTags will recognize the difference. AirTags use UWB to pinpoint the exact location of a lost item, offering a level of spatial awareness that BLE cannot match. The Bolt Mission brings that same level of precision to home entry.
Other ULTRALOQ Models in the New Collection
While the Bolt Mission is the flagship of the new lineup, ULTRALOQ has also introduced two additional models that cater to different door types and user preferences.
- Bolt Pro – A deadbolt designed for standard interior doors. It is Aliro‑Certified, allowing tap‑to‑unlock via Apple Wallet or Samsung Wallet. The Bolt Pro supports fingerprint, PIN, app control, and a physical key backup.
- Latch 5 Pro – A lever‑style lock suitable for side entrances, garage doors, and home office doors. Like the Bolt Pro, it offers Aliro tap‑to‑unlock, fingerprint, PIN, app control, and key backup.
Both the Bolt Pro and Latch 5 Pro are Matter‑Certified, ensuring compatibility with Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and other Matter‑enabled ecosystems. However, they do not support Apple Home Key, which is Apple’s proprietary NFC tap‑to‑unlock standard. Users who require Home Key will need to look elsewhere.
Why UWB Matters for Smart Home Security
Auto‑unlock features have been a selling point for smart locks, but their reliability has been a major pain point. GPS‑based systems can fail for no apparent reason, and BLE can misinterpret proximity. UWB offers a solution that is both accurate and independent of external infrastructure. By processing data locally, the Bolt Mission reduces latency and eliminates reliance on cloud services, enhancing both speed and privacy.
Moreover, UWB’s precision can help prevent unauthorized access. Because the lock can detect the exact direction of approach, it can differentiate between a legitimate user walking toward the door and a potential intruder attempting to gain entry from the wrong side.
Availability and Next Steps
ULTRALOQ’s new collection is available for purchase through Amazon and directly from the company’s website. Homeowners interested in upgrading to a UWB‑enabled lock should consider the Bolt Mission for its advanced detection capabilities. If tap‑to‑unlock across multiple platforms is a priority, the Bolt Pro and Latch 5 Pro offer solid alternatives, albeit without Apple Home Key support.
As smart home ecosystems continue to evolve, technologies like UWB will likely become standard in high‑end locks, offering users a seamless and secure entry experience that matches the sophistication of their other connected devices.
Key facts
- ULTRALOQ’s Bolt Mission uses UWB for precise, direction‑aware auto‑unlock.
- The lock processes data locally, eliminating the need for cloud or hub connections.
- Bolt Pro and Latch 5 Pro offer Aliro tap‑to‑unlock across Apple and Samsung Wallets.
- All models are Matter‑Certified, ensuring broad ecosystem compatibility.
- UWB provides centimeter‑level accuracy, outperforming BLE and GPS for door entry.
Why it matters
The introduction of UWB in smart locks addresses a long‑standing reliability issue in auto‑unlock technology, providing homeowners with a more secure and convenient entry solution that works seamlessly with Apple Home and other ecosystems.
Frequently asked questions
What is ultra‑wideband (UWB) technology?
UWB is a radio technology that sends short pulses of radio waves, allowing devices to measure distance and direction with centimeter‑level accuracy.
Does the Bolt Mission require a home hub?
No, the Bolt Mission processes proximity data locally and does not rely on a cloud connection or a dedicated hub.
Can the Bolt Pro use Apple Home Key?
No, the Bolt Pro supports Aliro tap‑to‑unlock via Apple Wallet and Samsung Wallet, but it does not support Apple Home Key.
Sources
- [1] 9to5mac.com — originally reported as “HomeKit Weekly: ULTRALOQ releases its first UWB smart lock that works with Apple Home”
