Yale has announced a new smart lock that integrates with Google's Nest video doorbell, marking a significant development in the smart home ecosystem. The Yale Smart Lock with Matter replaces the discontinued Nest x Yale Lock and boasts compatibility with multiple smart home platforms, including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings, thanks to its Matter-over-Thread connectivity.

The new lock features a full-deadbolt replacement design with a keypad and keyway for access, and comes in three finishes: gray, white, and black. The white and gray options are designed to match the available finishes of the Nest doorbell. The lock is set to launch this summer at a price point of $170.

One of the key benefits of the Yale Smart Lock with Matter is its ability to work seamlessly with various smart home platforms. Through the Yale Access app, Google Home app, or any other Matter-certified app, users can manage passcodes, schedule guest access, set up auto-lock, and receive battery life alerts and notifications for lock events. The lock also allows users to view a history of lock activity.

Notably, the lock does not have any proprietary features that would make it work better in Google Home than other Matter-enabled platforms. This openness is a significant departure from the previous Nest x Yale Lock, which was exclusive to the Google Home ecosystem.

This is not Yale's first foray into Matter-enabled smart locks. The company launched the Yale Assure SL with Matter-over-Thread last year and has also announced plans to upgrade its Yale Approach retrofit smart lock to work with Matter-over-Thread. However, Yale has yet to release a Matter-over-Thread connectivity module for its flagship Assure 2 products, despite earlier promises.

The discontinuation of the Nest x Yale Lock, which was first launched in 2018, marks a shift in Google's smart home strategy. While the device will continue to receive software and security updates, its discontinuation signals Google's increasing focus on open standards like Matter.

The implications of this development are far-reaching, as it paves the way for greater interoperability between different smart home platforms. With the Yale Smart Lock with Matter, users can choose from a range of ecosystems, rather than being locked into a single platform. As the smart home market continues to evolve, this kind of openness and flexibility will become increasingly important.

In conclusion, the Yale Smart Lock with Matter represents a significant step forward in the smart home ecosystem, offering users greater choice and flexibility in their smart home setup. As the industry continues to move towards open standards, we can expect to see more innovative products and integrations that make our homes smarter and more convenient.