When it comes to home security, smart locks remain one of the most widely adopted solutions and continue to evolve rapidly. While ultra-wideband (UWB) technology was a major highlight at CES 2026, many companies also showcased palm vein recognition for truly touchless entry. Many brands are now combining two or more biometric verification methods to ensure accurate identification and enhanced security. Matter compatibility has been a primary target, and it emerged as a key addition this time too, with manufacturers integrating it into their latest smart lock models. Below, we’ve highlighted our favorite innovations from CES, offering a closer look at where the smart lock market is headed in 2026.
Aqara U400
Smart home security has been at the forefront of this year’s CES, and Aqara has introduced something that many people have been waiting for. Chasing the Ultraloq Bolt Mission, the company launched its new U400 smart door lock that utilizes Apple’s UWB-based Home Key for hands-free unlocking. The smart lock automatically opens up when an authorized person with a UWB-enabled device approaches, without opening an app or touching a keypad. Other highlighting features are Matter-over-Thread support, fingerprint scanner, keypad, and Aliro compatibility. It can be purchased for $270 from Amazon right now.
SwitchBot Vision Pro
SwitchBot impressed people with its Lock Vision Pro at CES 2026. It is a deadbolt smart lock that features 3D facial recognition and palm-vein scanning for hands-free entry in just 0.3 seconds. The main highlight is its 3D structured-light facial recognition, enhanced by AI for safe verification. The Vision Pro recognizes palm-veins even if you have wet or dirty hands. It pairs with the SwitchBot Hub 3 for Matter compatibility and functions seamlessly with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. The lock stores all your biometric data locally on the device itself to ensure privacy.
Ultraloq Bolt Sense
Xthings’ U-tec brand has done something similar with its new Ultraloq smart locks. They provide a hands-free entry system by combining facial recognition and palm vein authentication to validate the entrant correctly. Utilizing infrared light, this smart lock identifies you even if your hands are wet or dirty. Other highlights include built-in Wi-Fi and Matter support in the future.
Lockin V7 Max
Lockin has added new AuraCharge technology to its sleek and stylish V7 Max smart lock that gets power wirelessly through a dedicated AuraCharge transmitter. You just need to install the transmitter in a place where the lock is visible. The distance must not be more than 13 feet for a good response. As for locking features, it combines finger-vein recognition, palm-vein recognition, and 3D facial recognition into one unit. The smart lock also functions as a video doorbell, and comprises two units with built-in cameras that you need to put on either side of the door.
Kwikset Aura Reach
Kwikset, known for its strong build quality of smart locks, has combined Matter-over-Thread and Bluetooth connectivity in its latest Aura Reach model. It also offers hands-free auto unlocking with the Kwikset app using Bluetooth and geofence technology. There is an onboard button to lock the door when leaving, or the door automatically locks after a specified duration. It is an affordable and DIY-friendly option on the market.
Desloc V150 Plus
Another unique innovation unveiled at CES 2026 was the V150 Plus, which is powered by an integrated perovskite solar panel that can harvest energy from ambient and indirect light. This tech makes the lock operational even in shaded porches and covered entryways. The built-in solar panel can trickle-charge the removable 10,000 mAh battery. The smart lock uses 3D facial recognition and AI fingerprint sensing to give access to the user. It is expected to be available for pre-order in the second quarter of 2026, for a price tag under $300.
Yale Linus Smart Lock L2
Yale surprised people with its KeySense technology that unlocks automatically as you approach the door. You are verified by logging into the Yale Home app on your smartphone, Smart Keypad, and the included Yale Dot. The door locks back as per the time delay you have set. You can manage the L2 smart lock settings and grant remote access through the mobile app. Other features to highlight are built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Matter compatibility, along with a rechargeable battery that works for up to six months on a single charge.
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