Customer Ratings & Reviews

My family uses both iPhones and Android phones and with the built in support for Apple HomeKit, the Aqara provides a way better experience for iPhone. Installation was straightforward, replacing an existing deadbolt. I have a double door and had to make the hole on the strike plate side a little deeper and re-used my existing plate as the Aqara plate did not fit. Other than that, no problems with the install. It connected up easily to Apple Home via the iPhone app and I was up and running quickly. Love that I can tap with either my Apple Watch or iPhone to unlock door, but unfortunately you don’t get the same experience on Android. The kit comes with the E1 hub which was recently upgraded to support Matter, so you can add to Google Home if you have a controller. It allows the ability to lock and unlock via an Android phone but you need to go through the Google Home app. Kit also comes with a couple of NFC tags, which can be used to unlock with a tap. The fingerprint sensor is a favorite in my family and works great. There’s also keys and keypad codes that can be used, so lots of options, especially at this price point.

Install was quick, 1 minor thing, when setting up the HomeKit kit you need to click the HomeKit button on the interior lock part after taking the faceplate off. When adding the device to your phone, It's not well articulated that there is a physicial button on the lock you need to click to add the device to your apple home app.

I looked for a long time to find a product like this. It has fingerprint, passcode, nfc key fob, proximity, and guest access features. It has remained rock-solidly connected on my WiFi for about a month now. The only complaint I have is that it uses AA batteries instead of having a rechargeable one.

Love it! Very easy to set-up, did not have to make any mods to my door for it to fit. Easy to setup the app, as well as link to Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google account. Easy to setup fingerprints, entry code, NFCs, Apple home keys. Seriously awesome

Aqara, four years has dominated the smart home and with the Aqara U100 is no different. The one thing I said to the part is that it works with every smart home ecosystem and as a homeowner, it is a great addition for my tenant as well as for myself.

With up to 6 ways to unlock and numerous integration options, this smart lock will fit into nearly any home and add security and convenience. Highlights: * Sturdy and modern-looking external keypad. * 6 options to unlock: Keypad, fingerprint, NFC tag, Apple HomeKey, Physical metal key and app-based/automation access. * External USB-C port for emergency power to gain access when batteries are dead. * Physical Key lock is hidden and protected behind a sliding door. * Includes a hub for remote access if not using Apple HomeKit, etc. * Claims up to 8 months of life from the set of 4 AA batteries. * Easy installation. * Easy integration into Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home and more. * Matter compatible. * Native app has a lot of features and customizations. Room for Improvement: * Internal part is plasticy. * Difficult to open inside section for battery replacement. * Not able to reliably determine if door is open, closed or ajar. Setup: Installation was typical of other smart locks. There is the hardware installation followed by the software setup. Like other smart locks, installation includes a keypad portion that is on the outside of the door, a portion with the batteries that is on the inside of the door, and the deadbolt itself that is sandwiched between. The printed documentation was minimal, but that’s OK for me. The sparse printed material had a QR code that directs you to get the free Aqara Home app. The app itself guides the installation with simple steps and short video demonstrations. The video and text sometimes felt like it was translated from another language but overall everything worked as expected. I was able to physically install the hardware in about 15 minutes with no questions or difficulties. Software setup was equally easy. The hardware setup in the app continued to the setup of the software part and also included integration into Apple HomeKit and linking of a HomeKey. I already have an existing Apple HomeKit setup and another smart lock that uses HomeKey. The same virtual “key” now opens both locks even though they are different brands - cool! The provided hub is not completely necessary depending on the ecosystem you want to connect to, but it is included in the box and doesn’t seem to introduce any issues into my existing HomeKit system. The lock is compatible with Matter as well, so integration is fast and easy for compatible systems. During setup, the app supposedly calibrated a door sensor to determine when the door is open, closed or ajar. Other smart locks have a magnet that is attached to the door frame to aid in this sensing, but this Aqara lock just uses whatever is built into the lock portion and has nothing on the door frame. As such, it doesn’t seem to accurately and reliably determine when the door is open or ajar, but otherwise everything during the installation went great. By the way, inside the battery compartment are buttons to reset the lock and re-establish connections to the app or Apple HomeKit. There is also the Apple HomeKit QR code sticker and the QR code for the Aqara user’s manual. Usage: Once fully set up in both the Aqara app and Apple HomeKit, the lock is accessible locally via Bluetooth and remotely via the Aqara hub or an integration such as HomeKit or Google Home. The lock’s status and basic control (to lock or unlock) is available in both ecosystems and various automations can be programmed to either be triggered by the lock’s status or to control the lock based on some other event. The lock doesn’t seem to know reliably whether the door is open, closed or ajar, and doesn’t indicate that status on any summary screens in the app. I set up numerous fingerprints for myself as well as one of the provided NFC tags, a PIN code in the Aqara app and as mentioned above, my Apple HomeKey. In addition to these options to lock/unlock the door, I can also use the Aqara app, Apple Home or the provided physical key. So in all, I have 6 options for opening the door and am fairly confident that at least one of them will be convenient and work when I need it. In the unlikely event that you’re outside the locked door and the batteries have died, there is a USB-C port on the bottom of the keypad. Attach any suitable external USB battery to temporarily power up the lock and gain access, then swap out the batteries once you’re inside. Also, if none of the electronic methods for unlocking the door are working and the emergency battery jump doesn’t work, you always have the physical key which will work even if the lock is completely dead. The keypad is backlit so it’s easy to type in a code at night if that’s the method you’re using. The lock is supposed to last up to 8 months on a set of AA batteries and notify you when the batteries need replacement, but I haven’t had it installed long enough to confirm that. The app isn’t the best I’ve seen, but it is mostly organized and there are tons of options you can set up. Automatic locking, automatic re-locking, temporary access codes, etc… There is also a nice “passthrough” feature whereby you enter a code on the keypad to disable any automatic re-locking until you manually lock the door again. This is super helpful if you’re going through the door often and don’t want it to auto lock behind you each time. Setting up users for various access levels is easy, although once you’ve create that user, it’s difficult to rename them. I’m sure the app will see improvements in the near future, and the hardware itself is good enough already. The outside (keypad) portion is nicely constructed and feels like it can withstand the elements, but the inside portion of the lock is completely plastic and feels a little cheap to me. To replace the batteries, you have to pry the back of the inside portion off and it feels like doing this will eventually break off the plastic tabs that keep the panel attached. This isn’t a deal-breaker and at the price-point of this lock, you’re getting a lot of value for price paid. Overall: The product is thoughtfully designed and has a modern and sleek appearance. While the materials of the inside portion are not amazing, they are adequate and the exterior portion is well-made and looks good to me. The features and connectivity and unlocking options are great - especially having up to 6 choices for unlocking. I haven’t had it installed long enough to confirm the stated battery life, but so far this lock was easy to install, easy to set up and easy to use. I love having HomeKey as my primary unlocking method with several others (like fingerprint, PIN code and NFC tag) as alternates. This smart lock should definitely be on your short list if you value the feature set like I do.

This Aqara U100 smart lock is very well made and looks nice. The square shape is sleek and the silver color will go well with modern designs. It came nicely packed and to my surprise it included a wireless hub (Hub E1). The hub is not necessary to use the device, however it is needed if you want the remote capabilities and automations. This lock works on Bluetooth and Zigbee technology. Despite it having Zigbee, after several tries it did not pair with my Smartthing. Installation was not hard at all, it took me about 10 min. However, in the packaging it does not include an installation guide. There’s a QR code in the supposed to be user manual which will take you to an installation video, and the actual user manual is another QR code. The reason for my quick installation was because I did not have to remove the deadbolt or the strike plate. Maybe because it was from another smart lock, but either way that would only add up another 5 to 10 minutes. Once the lock is installed you’ll need to download the Aqara app to set things up. The app was simple to use and to navigate. If you end up setting the hub first, from the hub settings you can bind and set up the lock at the same time. This lock has plenty of features, one of my favorites is the auto lock right after you close the door. No need to do anything, just close the door and it will lock immediately. That being said my least favorite was the normal way of locking. You have to press the and hold the lock symbol for a few seconds. I found that to be annoying coming from another smart lock with fingerprint locking and unlocking. Not even entering your code will lock the device. In other words you will depend on the auto lock features, and that has to be enabled manually. I’m pretty sure that can be fixed with a firmware update. There are several ways to unlock, either with a physical key, key pad, remotely, fingerprint and NFC tags. The fingerprint scanner works like a charm, I just had a few missed reads here and the but for the most part was very responsive. You can add multiple fingers too. The locking mechanism was fast, one of the fastest I've used and I own several smart locks from different brands. By sliding down the cover underneath the keypad, it will reveal the keyhole. It will work just as you expect from any other lock. This lock can be used with automated features; the problem is you will need to either have more Aqara devices, or ink the E1 hub with Smartthing or IFTTT. You can link your Aqara account to Google Assistant and Alexa. But to be honest they are both limited in what they can do when it comes to automation. You can definitely control this lock with a voice assistant. For those with Apple homekit you are in luck. You will be able to use your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock the door right out of the box. I tried doing the same thing with Android phones and smartwatches and it did not work. The closest one was the Galaxy phone, I was able to add a keypass to the Samsung Wallet, however it didn’t work. Last but not least the included NFC tags work beautifully. All you need to do is present the tag to the door and it will lock and unlock the device. The lock has a built-in speaker and is kind of loud too. I like the sound of the alarm when you enter the wrong code. This device uses 4 AA batteries and they are included. Manufacturer claims they will last approx 8 months and of course that all depends on the usage. Comparing it to my other devices I would say in the real world it will last around 4-5 months which is still great. The included E1 hub is a small USB dongle that can be plugged anywhere in the house. It works on Zigbee, 2.4Ghz Wi-Fi band and just recently they added Matter support. However, Matter seems to be limited. After pairing the Hub via Matter to my Smartthing I was only able to see the lock, not the other devices connected to the Hub. This hub will add automations and the ability to control the lock away from home. You can bind other Aqara products to this hub as well. I really like this hub due to its minimal design and capabilities and pair with the Aqara app automations are easy to create. Overall I am very impressed with this smart lock and its potential, not to mention the included hub that supports Matter. Is very well built, easy to install, is modern and elegant, and supports plenty of smart integrations to include Homekit out of the box. With the included NFC tags makes this another convenient way of unlocking your door. I am very excited that Aqara is finally becoming a competitor in the smart home arena and am eager to see their 3 point smart lock in the US market. In the box you get the lock, 4 AA batteries, 2 NFC tags, 2 keys, USB Hub (E1), installation kit and user guide.

I got the Aqara Smart Lock U100 Kit along with the Aqara hub, the Aqara Presence Sensor, and the Aqara Smart Video DoorBell and am very pleased with the results, especially when integrated with Alexa. I used the lock to replace my Yale Assure Lock 2 which, while it worked fine, absolutely gobbled up the AA batteries that powered the lock mechanism and WiFi, batteries were lasting 4 weeks on average, which to me is unacceptable. I am hoping for better results with the Aqara, so far so good. Installation was very easy. I downloaded the Aqara app and then watched a YouTube video showing the step-by-step installation which was very easy to follow. I am especially happy that the strike for this lock includes a plastic cup/receiver to cover the hole I had to drill out to accept the bolt, much cleaner look than what I had with the Yale. As you can see from the pictures, the lock’s appearance is complementary to my satin nickel door handle, I think they look great together. I also like one of the safety features built into the lock for opening it should there be a power outage; on the outside of the door, simply slide down the bottom section to reveal a keyhole that will accept one of the 2 included keys as a backup. I really like the integrations possible with other Aqara products Alexa. You can use IFTTT to perform tasks like unlocking the door if the Aqara doorbell recognizes your or a family member’s face. You can of course lock or unlock the door from your phone or check the status of the lock. I have barely scratched the surface of all the things the lock is capable of. My only minor complaint on this Aqara lock as well as the other Aqara products I got with it is that they only support 2.4ghz WiFi networks, and even then, it took multiple attempts to get the initial connection to work. However, after I got through that portion of the installation process, it has worked flawlessly. I can give the Aqara Smart Lock U100 kit my unconditional recommendation based on the performance so far. If you have a WiFi router with only a 5ghz speed, be sure to set up a 2.4ghz SSID before installing Aqara products, and I recommend setting up the Aqara E1 hub 1st for the most seamless installation, especially if you are going to installing multiple Aqara devices and intend on using the Automations feature.

Aqara's ecosystem is one that is very versatile. Do you have a zigbee/Matter home like Samsung Smarthings? Maybe Apple Homekit? Google Home? IFTTT? Alexa? You have options! This really simplifies things for you and provides plenty of features in a well built package. It looks very sleek and something to be proud of to display on the front of your door.The main features and highlights for me are the super precise fingerprint reader, NFC tags for access, Iphone/watch access, long battery life. There is no need for subscription fees to access certain features. This smart lock paired with the Aqara video doorbell is a great setup to start a functional smart home setup. I think in the overall ecosystem, this makes a perfect pairing. Installation is very DIY friendly. The app explains the process pretty simply with a how to video and user manual. I had an initial issue where the door opening is not functional for my garage access door since it looks like the previous owners messed with the hole opening and decided to just omit access in the future. The solution would be to obtain a new door altogether to restart installation and it isn't feasible in my case. Just make sure that your door is compatible or that if you are replacing an existing deadbolt that you have adequate spacing as instructed for smooth lock access.

This smart lock is my first from Aqara, though I have used several other brands' locks in the past. I like that there are multiple ways to gain entry to your home and unlock the device electronically, including the numeric touch keypad, fingerprint, remotely using the app over WiFi or Bluetooth, and NFC tapping with your smartphone, wearable, or included tags. You basically never have to worry about getting locked out because even if the batteries go flat, there’s an emergency USB-C charging port that will let you power the unit up, or you can use the included physical keys. Installation was straight forward since I was replacing an existing deadbolt, however, I should mention that popping off the knob plate on the internal unit was much more difficult than I anticipated as the included plastic tool just wasn’t rigid enough, and I ended up using two flathead screwdrivers to pry it off. The U100 comes with its own tumbler and pair of keys as well as bolt, catch, and strike plates, so even if you don’t already have an existing deadbolt, a template is provided so you can drill the appropriate holes in door and frame for installation. The lock requires 4 AA batteries and is advertised to last up to 8 months (with 8 unlocks per day). After installation, you’ll need to download and install the Aqara Home app to setup the smart features of the lock. The lock can connect to your smartphone using Bluetooth or over your home WiFi network by first binding to the included ZigBee hub. The hub is a small USB stick device that you plug-in nearby the lock and is hinged, so you can angle it up to 90-degrees to its USB port; it can connect to up to 2 devices and also act as a WiFi repeater. The hub is the bridge between your lock and WiFi network and allows it to interact with other services like AI Voice Assistants. The hub is not required if you are using Apple Home, and a different hub would required for Matter support. Generating virtual keys in the app for multiple users is easy and intuitive. For occupants of the home, you can store up to 10 fingerprints, 2 pass codes, and 2 NFC devices per user, but for temporary users, you’ll set up pass codes that can have limitations like scheduling specific days and times they can be used, for example for a housekeeper or dog walker, or a specific validity period which would be great for visiting guests and short-term rental properties. You can also create one-time use only pass codes for things like deliveries and drop offs. One thing to remember is when using NFC unlocking, you’ll need to tap the lock in the middle of the keypad. For security, remote unlocking and unlocking via automations are disabled by default and can be toggled on/off in the app at any time. All your sensitive data like fingerprints and pass codes are stored locally to the lock and not the cloud and will continue to operate the lock even if your power (and WiFi) goes out. This lock features auto-locking without the need for any additional sensors, as the gyroscope used to detect whether the door is closed is embedded in the lock itself. It can also lock automatically each time the door is closed, after a set delay interval, if the door hasn’t been opened after unlocking remotely, and you can enable swipe to lock on the keypad for immediate locking. There is an alarm that, if enabled, sounds when the door is left open for longer than 3 seconds up to 3 minutes. Do Not Disturb turns off the sounds from the lock within a specific time interval, like late at night, though the lock can still be unlocked by users. Just note that the ‘door not locked’ alarm will still sound while this mode is active. On the flip side, you can toggle on “passage” mode which will prevent the lock from automatically locking until the mode is disabled or the door is manually locked, which is great for parties if you have guests coming and going, or you are simply going in an out frequently/briefly and don’t want to have to unlock the door. If you enable away mode, the app will send you notifications and trigger set automations if the door is unlocked from the inside or via a key. You can easily setup geofencing with other integrations like IFTTT to enable this mode automatically when you leave the premises. Another security feature locks out the keypad, including fingerprints and NFC, for a set period of time after 10 failed attempts to unlock occur within 10 minutes. This helps prevent any brute force attempts to guess your password and anti-peep masking lets you enter random digits before and after your passcode to make it harder for anyone watching to see your code. Overall, the U100 offers everything that I want in a smart lock. It was easy to install and there are multiple methods of entry, backup options if the batteries run out, a built-in door position sensor, and you can give or rescind access in the app on-the-fly. With the ZigBee hub and WiFi connectivity, you can manage the door remotely from anywhere, and the lock works with many different home automation services including Alexa, Apple, Google, and IFTTT with plans for Matter integration through a software update in the future.

When they say smart lock, they are telling the truth. If you have Apple home then you are definitely going to be happy with this device. Out of the box, it has a very good and modern design. It’s heavy and feels well made. I like the color way, black and silver can go with any door. It comes with batteries, so you don’t have to worry about that. Before installing make sure you have all the tools you need, it makes installation quick and fast. You can get it done by yourself but it’s quicker with two people. 10 minutes is plenty of time to get it done. Once installed and hooked up to my internet or WiFi, I was promoting download the app. One thing that took me a few tries was hooking up the key fobs. We use those the most when you have someone house sitting or friends coming to stay with us. Super easy to use and they can be returned. As opposed to giving out the key code and having to reset it when your guests leave. Over all this is a great set to have to make your home feel more modern.

I have never seen a smart lock with so many unlock options. This one has your typical pin option, but also fingerprint, NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi remote and physical key. You can pick and choose what you want enabled, but it has them all. On top of that, the touchpad is touch sensitive and the prompts are in the language of choice, not just tones. Set up is for a single deadbolt style lock and is pretty simple to install. I almost thought I lost 2 screws for the final step of install, only to realize they are in a small white bag, easy to blend in with everything else. There are no instructions in the box though, you have to get the app and follow the process through it. It is step for step and offers some video clips to help follow along. Once installed though, it kind of just drops you off to go through the app and figure the rest of it out. However, it is pretty straight forward in adding users or guests and with the different types of connections. If you want to use the lock remotely or with other 3rd party devices, you have to connect and set up the included Hub E1. Like other Aqara devices though, you need a USB-A adapter or port to power it. It is kind of an awkward device because it is like hooking up a Wi-Fi dongle, but with whatever power adapter you happen to have. Using the same app, setup is simply scanning the QR code and entering your Wi-Fi details. The door lock will still function without this, however, like I mentioned, if you want remote notifications or the ability to manage your lock remotely, you will need it. I am shocked this works off of just 4 x AA batteries and it claims up to 8 months of charge with the average of 8 fingerprint entries a day. I haven’t had it that long to find out, but being AA batteries, that is not too bad to replace. In the ultimate worst case, if you forget to replace your batteries there is still the ability to use the physical key or you can use a USB-C cable to the bottom of the lock attached to any device that can provide a charge and you can use the normal digital functions to get in. So far it has worked without issue except one case and I can’t get it to repeat. No idea what caused it, but for some reason it was not registering the fingerprint or pin and after 10 failed attempts, it locks you out for 30 minutes by default. However, you can still use Bluetooth, the physical key or remote option if you have that enabled. Being that my phone was in my pocket, Bluetooth was simply logging into the app and holding to unlock. I assume since it was my son trying to get in and he hasn’t used it much yet, it might have just been placement of his thumb that caused it to see a failed attempt too many times and when I attempted the pin it was already at 10. Overall, this is a pretty solid lock with plenty of options to suit anyone on how they would like to unlock their door. With auto-lock feature that is still listed as beta, voice notifications and push notifications, you can feel safe that your door is locked. Combine this with other devices and you feel in control.

I decided to replace the year old Yale Assure 2 smart lock that I have had issues with from the beginning with the Aqara U100. This lock is pretty awesome and I am quite happy with it. It has all the features that you would want out of a smart deadbolt. It has a number pad to enter a code, which you can also assign different codes to different people so you know who has come in. It also has a fingerprint reader so you only need your finger to enter. The fingerprint reader is quite quick as well, almost as quick as TouchID. You can use the app to unlock it if you choose. You can also use Siri from your phone or watch to unlock it. If you choose, you can also use HomeKey, which allows you to bring your phone or watch just close to the lock, and it will unlock as long as you have registered that device! And lastly, if all that fails, you can still use a traditional key to unlock it. For the price and the ability to have HomeKit/HomeKey compatibility, you just can't beat this. Sometimes while using Siri or the Home app, it may take a while for the lock to respond, but it eventually will. Sometimes you will get a notification from Siri that it's taking a while to respond, this may be due to not having the Aqara hub. I believe once I get the hub, the time it takes to respond will be eliminated. Not only does this lock look good, it also feels good. Super nice build quality and attention to detail. Overall, I am extremely happy with this lock and it was finally the one that had almost all of the options and features that I wanted and also comes at a lower price. I would recommend this lock to others.

Nothing negative to say. I have invested in Aqara so i needed the lock went fron nest yale lock to the aqara lock and big upgrade i see reviews about limits on the aqara app but honestly i dont see any plus you can pair with apple homekit for more automations. Set was very easy i eould get the aqara m3 hub to pair even of you get the small hub that comes with the lock. Also i love the big box design it look perfect

At first I was skeptical of the name and all of the promised features. However, I learned during the install and setup of this smart lock (U100), that it was a reliable and would be a trusted device for years to come. Install: I replaced an existing smart lock (which originally was a regular bolt lock). If you never installed a bolt lock on a door before I recommend watching a YouTube video or hiring a professional. Also, if you have an older or uncommon door you may need to drill a bigger hole(s) or again hire a professional. Every door is different so it is hard to say on here. I have a good amount of experience and was able to install my lock within 15 minutes (not including setting it up "digitally". Digital setup: Digital setup was quick for me. I downloaded the app, created an account, connected the lock, scanned my finger prints, and answered some questions and I was ready to go. The longest part was scanning my fingerprints (this was annoying but it worked) and link up the two NFC cards. Although the fingerprints was annoying to do it did not compromise how the lock is secure or the reliability of "if it would unlock" but rather it kept repeating the statement to rescan your finger over and over again. Daily use: I have loved using this lock on a daily basis. Installed on my backdoor, it is so easy to enter my house now without needing a key or trying to type in a code. I scan one of my rescanned fingers and I am in. I often have a baby in my hand and the U100 is helpful in making the process of getting home earlier. I use no other ways to open the lock just my finger. The keypad is nice for guests or family members to access the house when I provide them a code. I also want to note that this lock also comes with two physical keys. My past smart lock did not have this and it was a big name brand! I would have to hold up a 9v battery to the bottom if the batteries died. It happened to me once and it was horrible as I had to run to the store to buy a battery to unlock my door. Not the case with this lock! Slide the front panel down and it will expose a physical key hole. Best feature: Other than the reliable finger scanner, the best feature is when I close the door. When your door is closed it will flash the lock symbol on the keypad to remind you to lock the door. In addition, if you come up to the door, it will sense you are there and flash the lock symbol to let you know the door is unlocked that way you don't lock your door as your trying to enter. App is reliable and does your basics. You can change your settings, add codes, add finger prints, check logs, etc. A good, reliable, easy to use app.

This smart lock is awesome, I am able to control it from my phone thanks to the included dongle. Create separate passwords and accounts for friends and family and even set what time slots their accounts are able to be used. Highly recommend. Perfect house warming gift. My favorite part is being able to open my door with my Apple watch. The only con is you cannot pair more than 1 Apple watch to open the door, so your spouse will need to either use the included RFID tags, fingerprint, or code.

I really can't think of anything to complain about. Installation was super easy, set up was easy. Everything works perfectly. Finger print reading is really accurate and reliable. I don't have apple devices so I can't say how the home key works, but everything else is flawless.

I got this with the doorbell camera. Excellent product and features. Every aspect of entering my home is so much more convenient without keys. Work great with Apple HomeKit. My family all has their preferred method for entering, everything works as it should. Always unlocked mode is great when bring items inside with multiple opening and closing of the door.

Awesome! Love the Door Lock easy to use easy to install. Highly recommended.

This smart lock is by far the most reliable one ive used in years! Some of the other popular brands seem to be inconsistent with bluetooh, August and Eufy to name a few. While my Aqara U100 works with Apple Homekey (not while Matter is active) your iphone or Apple watch can unlock the door by tapping it to the keypad. Your apple device has to be unlocked. The finger print reader is nice for backup or your passcode. If none of that works because the powers out or you prefer the traditional way!! Theres a key slot as well