Schlage has unveiled its most advanced smart lock yet: the Sense Pro. Priced at $399 and shipping on June 29, the lock is the company's first to feature ultra-wideband (UWB) technology for hands-free unlocking, its first to support Matter-over-Thread, and its first without a physical keyhole. The lock works seamlessly with Apple Home Key on iPhone and Apple Watch, with Google and Samsung support expected later this year through the Aliro standard.
Hands-Free Unlocking That Actually Works
Unlike previous geofencing or Bluetooth-based systems that often trigger falsely or lag, the Sense Pro uses UWB to detect when an authorized user approaches the door. In testing by The Verge, the lock reliably unlocks as the user walks up, without needing to tap a phone, enter a code, or press a fingerprint. “Thanks to ultra-wideband, it unlocks as I walk up to my front door; I don't need to enter a code or tap my phone or press my finger against it,” wrote Jennifer Pattison Tuohy. “I've tested several hands-free unlocking systems that rely on geofencing and other radio technologies, and UWB is faster and more reliable. It's the first one I actually trust.”
Matter-over-Thread and No Keyhole
The Sense Pro is Schlage's first lock to use Matter-over-Thread, ensuring broad compatibility with smart home platforms like Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. It also marks the company's first smart lock without a traditional keyhole, a design choice that enhances security and aesthetics. The lock is sleek, discreet, and simple, according to early reviews.
Apple Home Key and Aliro Standard
At launch, the Sense Pro supports Apple Home Key, allowing users to unlock their door with a simple tap of their iPhone or Apple Watch. Support for Google and Samsung devices is coming soon via Aliro, a new industry standard for digital keys. This positions the lock as a future-proof investment for multi-platform households.
Pricing and Availability
The Schlage Sense Pro is available for pre-order now and begins shipping on June 29, 2025, at a retail price of $399. It is sold through Schlage's website and select retailers.
Context and Implications
The launch of the Sense Pro underscores a broader shift in the smart lock market toward UWB technology, which offers precise location tracking and greater security than Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. By adopting Matter-over-Thread, Schlage ensures interoperability with the growing ecosystem of smart home devices. The elimination of the physical keyhole also signals a move toward fully digital home access, though some users may still prefer a backup key option.
“The Schlage Sense Pro is a beautiful smart lock. Sleek, discreet, and simple to use, it's Schlage's smartest lock to date.” — The Verge
Industry experts note that the $399 price point places the Sense Pro in the premium segment, competing with offerings from August, Yale, and Level. However, its combination of UWB, Matter, and multi-platform support could justify the cost for early adopters seeking a truly hands-free experience.
Different Perspectives
While The Verge and MacRumors highlight the lock's seamless integration with Apple devices and its reliable UWB performance, other outlets like The Gadgeteer focus on the June 29 shipping date and price. Digital Trends attempted to cover the story but encountered a 403 error, illustrating the challenges of accessing content behind paywalls or server issues. Yahoo Finance's coverage emphasized the Schlage Converge technology platform, though the full article was unavailable due to rate limiting. Despite these gaps, the consensus is clear: the Sense Pro represents a significant leap forward in smart lock technology.
What's Next?
With Matter-over-Thread and Aliro support, the Sense Pro is poised to become a cornerstone of the smart home. As more devices adopt UWB and digital key standards, the days of fumbling for keys may be numbered. For now, Schlage has delivered a lock that finally makes hands-free unlocking a reliable reality.
