SAVVY SMART LOCKDOWN
Yale's Smart Lock Integration with Google Home Now Accessible - Understanding the Features
Get ready to level up your home security game with Yale's latest offering, the Smart Lock with Matter, designed to harmonize beautifully with Google Home and Nest video doorbells.
The much-anticipated Yale Smart Lock with Matter is now available in the US for $189.99. Although its initial price was anticipated to be around $169.99, a $20 price hike has been implemented due to tariff implications.
Back in April, Google stirred up some disappointment by announcing the discontinuation of its Nest x Yale Smart Lock. But without missing a beat, Yale jumped on board and promised to release a new smart lock with Matter, designed for Google Home and Nest video doorbells.
Now, the day is here, and the Yale Smart Lock with Matter is officially up for grabs in the US. Apart from the price adjustment, the lock boasts the same fully-featured design that was originally teased in April. This includes Matter-over-Thread connectivity, enabling the smart lock to seamlessly play nice with multiple platforms and ecosystems, including Google Home, Alexa, Apple Home, and Samsung SmartThings.
The Yale Smart Lock with Matter offers a variety of unlocking methods, such as remote unlocking via the Google Home app, other Matter-supported apps, and voice controls. Additionally, it can be unlocked through the accompanying keypad, and a backup key is at your disposal.
However, unlike other smart lock brands, the Yale Smart Lock with Matter skips the auto-unlock feature, as users reportedly prefer button and key options. Instead, it focuses on automatic locking for enhanced security and convenience.
One notable absence is the lack of integration with any security system, though this could be remedied post-launch. In contrast, the pre-existing Nest x Yale smart lock was capable of disarming Google Nest Secure.
Alongside the standard functionalities, the Yale Smart Lock with Matter allows users to create and edit codes, set schedules, monitor activity, and receive notifications. If you're rocking a Google Nest doorbell, you can integrate the lock to enjoy seamless live feed viewing from your doorbell. The lock packed a solid 12-month battery life, too.
Finished in black and white, the Yale Smart Lock with Matter is now available for purchase in the US at Yale and Amazon. As of now, availability and pricing details for the UK market have yet to be announced.
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Beyond its compatibility with Google Home and Nest video doorbells, the Yale Smart Lock with Matter boasts additional features such as:
- Key-free access through touchscreen keycode entry, eliminating the need for physical keys.
- Customizable settings including automatic locking after a specified time and vacation mode disabling the keypad for added security.
- Easy QR code setup process to connect the lock to your smart home network quickly.
- The lock's sleek design meshes well with Nest Doorbells aesthetically, with options in Snow (White), Ash (Gray, coming soon), and Matte Black. It is crafted using 60% post-consumer recycled plastics, reflecting sustainability efforts.
- Users can remotely unlock the door for trusted visitors via the Google Home app, consolidating doorbell activity and smart lock control in one interface.
Plus, it boasts compatibility with Apple Home (HomeKit), Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and Google Home ecosystems. However, it requires a compatible Matter hub with Thread border router functionality, such as Google TV Streamer (4K) or Nest Hub Max. With global coverage including EMEIA, Mexico, Australia, Asia, and Central & South America, the Yale Smart Lock with Matter broadens its usability internationally.
The Yale Smart Lock with Matter, now available in the US, ensures a smarter home with its seamless integration with various smart-home devices such as Google Home and Nest video doorbells. This smart-home gadget, featuring key-free access and customizable settings, showcases both the latest smart-home technology and a commitment to sustainability.
