Finally, a UWB lock, Matter ice maker, and more smart home gear

Before we get to the news, we have an update on next week’s episode — ADT CTO Gilles Drieu will join us to discuss all things smart home. So if you have any questions you’d like answered, be sure to submit them by the end of the week, Friday, September 27, 2024.

This week, U-tec released a new Ultraloq model with support for Ultra-Wideband (UWB). While it supports Apple Home, it does not support the native auto-unlock feature introduced in iOS 18.

Instead, it will support automatic unlocking when used with the U-tec app. The company says a new version will arrive in 2025 with support for Aliro and automatic unlocking with Apple Home, so it’s best to wait for that model if you can.

Speaking of iOS 18, it was revealed that in this update, Thread smart accessories can be controlled directly from the iPhone. They are no longer routed through the border router first.

Other new products include an Onvis outdoor motion sensor with thread. There are very few outdoor motion sensors, so this will be a welcome addition.

Next up, Govee has a new connected ice maker on the market that lets you control it and get alerts via the manufacturer’s app. Interestingly, the company says it’ll be getting a Matter update “soon.”

This could potentially make it compatible with the Home app once Apple supports newer versions of Matter. Currently, fridges and freezers are part of the Matter spec, which is likely how it’s being added.

Finally, Rolling Square has begun crowdfunding two new Find My accessories: the AirNotch Pro and the AirCard Pro. The card is a great wallet tracker, while the other is a more powerful accessory for your keychain.

To wrap up the episode, we have new rumors about two new upcoming Sonos products. The Arc Ultra and Sub 4 have been revealed and could be coming later this year.

Keep up with all things Apple with the weekly AppleInsider Podcast. Just say “Hey Siri” to your HomePod mini and ask it, as well as our latest episode of HomeKit Insider. If you want the main AppleInsider Podcast experience without ads, you can support the AppleInsider podcast by subscribing for $5 per month through Apple’s Podcasts app, or through Patreon if you prefer another podcast player.