Schlage, a renowned lock maker, has taken a bold step into the future of smart home security with the launch of its Sense Pro Smart Deadbolt. This innovative lock marks a significant departure from traditional key-based locks, instead opting for a sleek, keyway-less design that leverages ultra-wideband (UWB) technology for seamless, hands-free unlocking.

The Sense Pro is not only Schlage's first lock to support the new Matter smart home standard but also one of the first locks to utilize UWB technology for auto-unlocking. This feature, which uses the user's paired and authorized personal device to calculate speed, trajectory, and motion, ensures a seamless and intuitive entry experience. The lock can open automatically as the user approaches their door, eliminating the need for physical keys or manual unlocking.

In addition to UWB, the Sense Pro also supports numeric codes and NFC-powered tap-to-unlock, similar to Apple's Home Key. However, it's worth noting that the lock does not feature a fingerprint reader, a technology that Schlage appears to have skipped over entirely. The company has instead placed its bets on UWB as the best option for seamless unlocking.

The Sense Pro's UWB functionality will require compatible devices, such as smartphones or smartwatches, to support hands-free unlocking. Schlage has not yet disclosed which specific models will be compatible with its implementation but promises to announce details closer to the lock's retail launch.

Beyond UWB, the Sense Pro also marks a significant milestone for Schlage as its first lock to support the Matter smart home standard. This means the lock is compatible with any Matter ecosystem, including Apple Home, Samsung SmartThings, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Home Assistant. The lock's Matter support is facilitated by Thread, a low-powered, low-latency smart home protocol designed for battery-operated devices like locks.

Schlage has also announced a new entry-level smart lock, the Schlage Arrive Smart WiFi Deadbolt, which will be available in late spring 2025. The Arrive features a push-button keypad and built-in Wi-Fi, allowing users to program up to 250 codes or unlock it with a physical key. While it doesn't support Matter, it is compatible with Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

The Sense Pro's launch date and pricing have not been disclosed, but the lock's radical redesign and innovative features are sure to generate significant interest in the smart home security market. As the industry continues to shift towards keyless locks, Schlage's bold move is likely to have a lasting impact on the future of smart home security.

In the broader context, the Sense Pro's support for Matter and UWB technology highlights the growing trend towards seamless, intuitive smart home experiences. As more devices and ecosystems adopt these standards, users can expect to see increased interoperability and convenience in their smart home setups.

With the Sense Pro, Schlage has demonstrated its commitment to innovation and its willingness to push the boundaries of what's possible in smart home security. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how other manufacturers respond to this bold move and what new innovations emerge in the world of smart locks.