Review of the ULTRALOQ Bolt with HomeKit Integration

In recent years, smart locks have significantly enhanced our home security and accessibility. The market, which once seemed stagnant, has seen some new players emerge with exciting options. One such option is the Ultraloq Bolt, which offers Apple HomeKit compatibility, integrated Wi-Fi, and multiple methods for securing and opening your door. Whether you prefer advanced features like fingerprint recognition or straightforward Siri voice commands, the Ultraloq Bolt has you covered (almost).

HomeKit Weekly is a series dedicated to smart home products, automation strategies, and everything related to Apple’s smart home ecosystem.

HomeKit Integration, but Lacking Home Key

The main advantage of the Ultraloq Bolt is its integration with Apple HomeKit. The ability to use the Home app or Siri to lock or unlock your door is fantastic for Apple enthusiasts. HomeKit automations can enhance your experience further—unlocking your door could trigger your lights, adjust the thermostat, or start playing your favorite music on your HomePod.

However, one feature I find lacking is Apple Home Key support. The ability to simply tap your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock the door would have elevated this lock significantly. While it’s not a dealbreaker, if you’ve enjoyed the convenience of Home Key with other smart locks, its absence is felt. I hope the manufacturer considers adding this in future updates or models, as Home Key could transform this lock from great to nearly perfect. Surprisingly, I found the pin code unlock feature to be quite useful for letting guests in.

The lock is also compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and other smart home ecosystems, providing flexibility no matter what platform you use or might switch to. With built-in Wi-Fi (as opposed to relying solely on Bluetooth, like some other locks), you can control it remotely or share access codes with family and friends without needing HomeKit.

Installing and Adding to HomeKit

Having installed various smart deadbolts over the years, I found the installation process for this one quite straightforward. Removing your old deadbolt and installing the new one takes just a few minutes, with no wiring or drilling needed—just a Philips head screwdriver is required. You’ll also need to replace the strike plate on your door.

To integrate it into your HomeKit setup, you’ll scan the HomeKit code located on the interior piece. Once it’s added to a room, you can easily control it through the Home app, allowing you to lock, unlock, or set it as part of automations and scenes to trigger other actions, such as turning on lights.

Conclusion for ULTRALOQ Bolt

All in all, the Ultraloq Bolt is an excellent choice for those who don’t prioritize Home Key support. The fingerprint unlock feature is likely to become your preferred option for everyday use—it certainly was for me. Installation is easy, the build quality is robust thanks to its zinc construction, and the inclusion of traditional physical keys provides a reliable backup if HomeKit experiences issues.

Moreover, the Ultraloq Bolt boasts an IP65 weather resistance rating, ensuring durability against water, dust, heat, and cold, making it dependable in nearly any environment. Powered by 8 AA batteries, it typically lasts around a year based on usage. Coupled with HomeKit compatibility that functions as you’d expect, it’s a fantastic option for enhancing your home security. If Home Key isn’t essential for you, the Ultraloq Bolt stands out as a remarkable smart lock.

You can purchase the ULTRALOQ Bolt with Fingerprint from Amazon.