Apple is researching smarter smart locks through a newly revealed patent application called Approach-Based Lock Control. The technology aims to prevent unintentional unlocks of lock devices that provide automatic, touchless unlocking when a user carrying an authorized device approaches.
Current smart locks can open when a user carrying an authorized iPhone approaches, but thieves could exploit this by waiting until someone walks away and opening the door before the lock registers they are out of range. Apple's approach would require authorized devices to approach at one or more pre-determined approach angles, with at least a predetermined approach speed, with at least a threshold approach consistency, and/or along one or more predetermined approach paths.
This means walking away from the front door, passing by while mowing the lawn, or heading upstairs past the entrance would not trigger an unlock. The system could also remember a user's recent actions, such as having entered the door ten minutes earlier, indicating they are already inside.
Apple suggests the technology could extend beyond smart homes to vehicles, gyms, and swimming pools. The research builds on Apple's broader smart home efforts, including HomeView and partnerships with other firms, showing the company is serious about connected home security.
Source: AppleInsider · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing