Nuki introduces Smart Lock 4.0 locks with support for Thread and Matter
Nuki introduces its Smart Lock 4.0. This smart lock will receive support for Thread and later a Matter update. It is compatible with European locks and will be available for 169 euros. A Pro version with built-in WiFi support will cost 279 euros.
The Nuki Smart Lock 4.0 and Smart Lock 4.0 Pro have almost the same appearance as their predecessor, but offer a longer battery life. Both models are intended for use with European cylinder locks. They also receive Matter support via the Thread protocol. Previous Nuki locks only worked via Bluetooth and WiFi. According to Nuki, Thread is faster than Bluetooth and more economical than WiFi. According to the manufacturer, the battery of the locks lasts about thirty percent longer.
With Matter via Thread, the locks will eventually also have the option to use them remotely without a direct WiFi connection. That remote access functionality will be added early next year with a firmware update. Users can control the locks remotely via Apple HomeKit or Google Home, for example with an Apple TV with Thread support or a Google Nest Hub. Support for the Alexa and SmartThings hubs will follow later, also writes The Verge.
The Smart Lock 4.0 will receive a paid firmware update that adds this functionality for remote access via Thread. That upgrade will cost 39 euros once. The update will be provided free of charge to existing Nuki users who upgrade to a Smart Lock 4.0. The Pro variant also gets this feature for free.
Users can also unlock the locks via the Nuki app, just like the previous models. That works with Bluetooth. The Smart Lock 4.0 series can also be used remotely via WiFi. The Pro variant has built-in WiFi support for this. The entry-level model requires a separate bridge to unlock it remotely via WiFi.
In addition to the two new locks, Nuki is also introducing a new Keypad 2 Pro. This can be used to unlock the locks with a numerical code or fingerprint. The Keypad 2 Pro has a stainless steel front. Unlike the current Keypad 2, the Pro variant must be built into a wall. The keypad can be used with the Smart Lock 4.0 and the Smart Lock 4.0 Pro, and costs 349 euros.