
Introducing the Yale Smart Lock: A Game-Changer for Google Home Users (But at a Price)
2025-06-24
Author: Liam
The Launch of Yale's Smart Lock
Tomorrow marks the debut of the Yale Smart Lock with Matter, hitting the shelves for $189.99—up $20 from its initial announcement in March. The price hike is attributed to tariffs, as confirmed by Yale.
Built for Compatibility: A Smart Lock That Works for Everyone
Developed specifically for Google Home and Matter connectivity, this smart lock is designed to seamlessly integrate with Google Home's Nest video doorbells. However, it doesn’t stop there; it boasts compatibility with Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and Home Assistant as well, thanks to its Matter-over-Thread feature.
Features and Functionality
Catelyn Herman, Yale's senior product manager, stated, "Tariff costs and overall product costs led us to have to increase the price slightly." Despite this increase, all original functionalities remain intact. The new Yale Smart Lock comes in stylish white, black, and will soon be available in gray.
Promising a robust 12 months of battery life on just four AA batteries, this lock not only offers better response times compared to standard Wi-Fi or Bluetooth locks but also adds several user-friendly control options. Unlocking can be done using a code via its backlit keypad or simply using a key.
Unlocking with Your Voice
Enjoy hands-free operation! Whether you use Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or even Apple's Siri, remote locking and unlocking is at your fingertips. Plus, with a voice PIN code, Google Assistant users can ensure secure access without needing to physically interact with the lock.
Limited Security Integration
Unlike its predecessor, the Nest x Yale lock, this model lacks integration with the Nest Secure security system at launch. This might raise eyebrows, especially given Yale and Google's strong ties with home security partner ADT.
User Preferences Shape Design Choices
This lock lacks auto-unlock functionality, favoring an auto-lock feature instead. Interestingly, it also includes a keyway that the previous model did not have—based on research indicating a user preference for both push buttons and keyed options. While the button design is appealing, some might argue that excluding the keyhole could enhance its sleek appearance.
Best-in-Class for Google Home Users
Yale’s new lock is tailored for best performance with Google Home. Users can create and manage access codes, set schedules for guest access, and receive notifications about their lock's activity—all integrated flawlessly with current Google Nest doorbells, letting you monitor your front door from a live feed.
Compatibility with Other Platforms
Though the lock is optimized for Google Home, it still plays well with other Matter-supporting platforms such as Apple Home and Samsung SmartThings, offering similar features across the board. However, existing Nest x Yale lock owners may not be thrilled by the new design options, as they lack the color variety of the previous model.
Setup and Connectivity
A notable convenience is the ability to set up the lock directly through the Google Home app—no need for the Yale app. Just bear in mind this smart device requires a Matter controller and a Thread border router, ideally a Google one for streamlined functionality.
If you're not ready to invest in the necessary technology, you can still use the Yale Home app over Bluetooth, but this is limited to home range only. For broader Wi-Fi access, you’ll need Yale’s $90 Wi-Fi Connect bridge—but it might be more cost-efficient to invest in a Google device that facilitates Matter connectivity.
Keep your eyes peeled for an in-depth review of the Yale Smart Lock coming soon!