Schlage introduced the first smart lock in North America to support Apple Home Key — the Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt — on Tuesday at CES 2022.
So first there was an app for that … key. And now there’s a lock for that key.
Apple Wallet and Home Key
When iOS 15 came out, it included a feature allowing users to add digital keys to the Wallet app on their iPhone and Apple Watch for use with compatible HomeKit door locks. NFC connectivity would enable a user to unlock their home simply by moving their device near the lock.
The Thread protocol-compatible Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt works as a typical HomeKit deadbolt, functioning over Wi-Fi without needing a separate hub to integrate with the Home app across Apple’s platforms. However, now you have the option of adding a home key for the lock in the Wallet app as part of the HomeKit setup process. That adds a new layer of convenience.
Multiple smart lock options
Using Apple’s Home Key system, you can unlock your door with your iPhone or Apple Watch without having to unlock your device. What’s more, the system supports Power Reserve, so it will function for up to five hours after your iPhone runs out of battery power.
As noted, the Encode Plus is also a traditional keypad deadbolt. As such, it has a physical key for backup. That amounts to multiple options for unlocking your door.
And there’s more. You can create up to 100 access codes to distribute to users who may need access to your home. And you can schedule codes to work only at certain times or revoke them when you no longer need them.
The lock also features Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa support.
Priced at $299.99, the Encode Plus will launch in spring 2022, Schlage said. Two styles, the more traditional Camelot and the more modern Century, will ship with several color options.
