The Nuki Smart Lock and Keypad 2 NFC combination offers a straightforward way to access your home, making it well suited to renters while supporting sought-after features such as Apple Home Key.
Retrofit smart door locks have long faced a particular limitation. Because they attach to the indoor side of an existing deadbolt, they typically lack an external-facing component that would allow for NFC usage. This has been a persistent drawback for anyone who wants to unlock their door with a tap.
How the Nuki system works
The Nuki setup addresses this challenge by splitting the hardware into two parts. The smart lock itself attaches to the indoor side of your deadbolt, keeping the exterior of the door largely unchanged. The Keypad 2 NFC is then mounted on the wall outside, providing the external component needed for tap-to-unlock functionality.
This two-part design means the lock retains its low-profile appearance while still delivering the convenience of NFC access from outside the home. Because the main lock mechanism fits over an existing deadbolt, it does not require permanent modifications to the door, which is a key consideration for those in rented accommodation.
Apple Home Key and renter-friendly design
Support for Apple Home Key is one of the standout features of the combination. Home Key allows compatible devices to store a digital key, letting users unlock a supported door simply by holding a phone or watch near the reader. The inclusion of the outdoor Keypad 2 NFC is what enables this capability on a retrofit lock.
The emphasis on a low-profile, non-invasive installation makes the system particularly appealing to renters who may not be permitted to alter their doors. By fitting to the indoor side of the deadbolt and pairing with a wall-mounted keypad outside, the Nuki Smart Lock and Keypad 2 NFC provides smart access without the drawbacks that usually accompany retrofit hardware.
The Keypad 2 NFC mounts to the exterior wall, while the smart lock attaches to the indoor side of the deadbolt.
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Image: appleinsider.com