Smart home · Locks & doorbells
Can a smart lock open without a key, code or phone in your hand?
Short answer
Yes, two ways. Eufy's S3 Max reads the veins in your palm; Apple's new LG lock, due December 2026, unlocks as you walk up with your iPhone or Apple Watch.
Which products can do it?
- Eufy S3 Max Video Smart LockYes
The S3 Max unlocks when you hold your palm over its sensor; it stores up to 50 palms and also works as a video doorbell.
Good to know: The reviewer found it touchy at first: hold your hand still for a few seconds. Re-enrolling helped.
- LG Smart Deadbolt Lock (Apple Home Collection)Announced
LG's Apple Home lock uses Ultra Wideband to unlock as you approach with Home Key on your iPhone or Apple Watch.
Good to know: $349.95, on sale from December 2026 (US and Canada). Keypad and backup key included. Not yet reviewed.
Why it matters
Fumbling for keys or a phone with full hands is the most common reason people want a smart lock.
Not proven yet
How reliable palm and walk-up unlocking are over months of daily use; reviews so far are short.
How we know (2 sources)
Hands-on review of the Eufy S3 Max Video Smart Lock, which unlocks by reading the veins in your palm (up to 50 users), plus code or key, and doubles as a 2K video doorbell. The palm reader was touchy at first: you hover your hand for a few seconds, re-enrolling helped, and older users may struggle with holding a hand in mid-air.
Read the sourceApple Home Collection, built by LG and Schneider Electric, goes on sale from December 2026, some items in early 2027. LG Smart Deadbolt ($349.95) unlocks via Ultra Wideband as you walk up with Home Key on iPhone or Apple Watch, has a keypad and backup key, works with Matter and locally without internet. Cameras $199.95-$399.95 (Video Doorbell Wired $249.95) recognize people, familiar faces, pets, vehicles and packages; recordings need iCloud+ ($0.99 for one camera, $2.99 for five, $9.99 unlimited), live view works without, and a HomePod, Apple TV or HomeView is required as hub.
Read the source