Nest has proven in recent years that it is anything but a one-trick pony. The company best known for its smart thermostats expanded its portfolio earlier this year at CES 2018 to include a new smart lock: the Nest x Yale Lock. Now that security device is getting a new perk courtesy of parent company Alphabet: the smart lock will work with voice commands via Google Assistant starting on August 29.
The keyless touchscreen deadbolt allows users to lock and unlock a door from just about anywhere, and creates passcodes to manage access for family members, friends, and guests. Keycode access can be revoked at any time to ensure security, and homeowners can even create schedules for guests, so that certain passcodes only work at certain times. Of course, all of this functionality can be controlled by the Nest app, which also displays a history of who has entered through a Nest x Yale Lock-protected door, and when.
Now much of that functionality will also be accessible via voice commands with just about any device that has the Google Assistant, including smartphones and Google Home smart speakers. Users will be able to use the voice assistant to execute commands to remotely check the status of the lock while on the go, lock the door from anywhere, and add lock commands to Google Routines that run multiple tasks at the same time. That means you can simply add locking the door to your “Goodnight” routine and Google Assistant will automatically take care of it so you can sleep soundly knowing you’re safe.
“Yale and Nest collaborated closely to develop a lock that brings a new level of security, convenience, and insight to the front door,” said Jason Williams, president of Assa Abloy U.S. Residential Group, which includes Yale Residential. “With this product, we are bringing to market a lock that takes full advantage of Nest’s leading ecosystem and extends its capabilities with useful product integrations.”
Integrated with other members of the Nest family, the Nest x Yale lock can be paired with Nest Secure to disarm Nest’s alarm system.
Alternatively, pairing the lock with the Nest Hello video doorbell will allow you to see who’s at the door, and remotely grant them access (or not).
Claiming easy installation that requires only a screwdriver, bringing the Nest x Yale lock into your home should be pretty straightforward. As far as security is concerned, Nest says that remote access is secured via layers of bank-level encryption technology. And if your power or Wi-Fi fails or your app malfunctions, you will still be able to open the Nest x Yale Lock using the touchscreen. And if the lock batteries drain, you won’t find yourself locked out because the deadbolt can be opened by touching a nine-volt battery to the terminals at the bottom of the lock.
You can buy the Nest x Yale lock for $249, or for $279, you can get a Nest Connect included as well. That feature will allow you to lock your door from anywhere using the companion app. Available colors include satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and polished brass.
Updated on August 28: The Nest x Yale Lock now works with Google Assistant
