Yale has just unveiled its latest smart lock, specifically designed to play nicely with the Google Home ecosystem. It’s even the very first lock to receive the “Google Home Preferred” certification, which is a big deal for anyone invested in Google’s smart home platform.
Contents
This new deadbolt lock isn’t just about Google, though. It packs modern features like Matter-over-Thread support, meaning it can connect smoothly with other popular smart home systems too, such as Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and Home Assistant. The big news for Canadians? This new smart lock is set to arrive in Canada this July.
What Makes This Lock Special for Google Home Users?
Designed to work seamlessly with Google’s Nest video doorbells and other Nest products, this new Yale smart lock lets you handle everything right from the Google Home app. You can manage who gets in by setting up passcodes, keep an eye on who’s been coming and going with activity logs, and get instant updates on the lock’s status – all within the familiar Google Home interface.
New Yale smart lock in white on a door
This deep integration means less jumping between different apps and a more unified experience for managing your home’s security, especially if you’re already using Google Assistant or Nest devices.
Smart Tech Inside: Matter and Thread Explained
One of the most exciting things about this lock is its support for Matter. Think of Matter as a universal language for smart home devices. It helps different gadgets, regardless of who made them, talk to each other reliably. So, a lock designed for Google Home can also be controlled via Apple Home or Alexa thanks to Matter.
The lock uses Thread, which is a special wireless technology that creates a strong, reliable network for your smart home devices. To use the advanced features like voice control or remote access over Thread, you’ll need a compatible Matter-enabled Thread hub. Many recent Google devices already act as hubs, like the Nest Hub, Nest Wi-Fi Pro, or Google TV with Chromecast.
If your home network isn’t set up for Thread yet, Yale also offers an optional Connect Wi-Fi bridge that plugs into an outlet to get your lock online. Of course, you can also connect directly to the lock via Bluetooth using Yale’s own Access app for nearby control.
Design, Features, and Power
This Yale lock is a full-replacement deadbolt, meaning it takes the place of your existing deadbolt on your door. It includes a built-in keypad for keyless entry using codes and, importantly, brings back a physical keyway. Unlike the older Nest × Yale lock which was entirely keyless, having a traditional key slot offers a convenient backup option.
The lock runs on four standard AA batteries, which Yale says should last up to 12 months before needing a change. It comes in a few finish options: white, black, with a gray option expected later in the fall.
While some smart locks offer an auto-unlock feature as you approach your door, this model focuses on security with an auto-lock function, ensuring your door is automatically secured after a set time, which is a useful feature if you’re sometimes forgetful.
Coming Soon to Canada
The new Yale smart lock is priced at $189.99 in the U.S. While specific Canadian pricing hasn’t been announced yet, Yale has confirmed that the lock will officially launch and be available for purchase in Canada in July. This makes it a strong contender for anyone in Canada looking to upgrade their door security with a modern, highly compatible smart lock, especially if they are already using Google Home devices.
This release marks a significant step for smart locks towards better compatibility across different platforms, led by deep integration with Google Home. If you’re eyeing a new smart lock this summer, Yale’s latest offering is definitely one to keep on your radar.
