Yale Announces Availability of Apple HomeKit-Enabled Smart Locks

Yale Locks & Hardware has announced that Apple HomeKit support for its Assure Lock family is available this month. The new Yale iM1 Network Module, which provides support for the Apple Home app and Siri, will be available for purchase as of October 16 in major retail stores in the U.S. and Canada.

When used with a compatible Assure Lock, the Yale iM1 Network Module allows homeowners to lock and unlock their home using the Apple Home app or Siri on an iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch. With the Yale Secure app, the user is also able to easily check battery status, manage up to 25 PIN codes, see current lock status, customize lock settings, name a lock and add a new lock. Locking and unlocking automatically and away from home requires an Apple TV 4th generation or iPad with iOS 10.3 or later set up as a home hub.

Siri voice support adds an entirely new level of convenience for homeowners by allowing them to check a doors current lock status or lock/unlock with a simple voice command. For example, “Hey Siri, is my front door locked?” and “Hey Siri, lock my front door.”

Apple HomeKit also provides homeowners with the ability to create scenes to generate a sequence of actions based on a certain command or event. For example, Hey Siri, Im going to bed, might cause the front door to lock, the thermostat to turn down and the kitchen lights to turn off.

“We strive to constantly develop products that enhance our users everyday lives and we are extremely excited to continue this with the launch of our iM1 Network Module and to offer iPhone users the ability to integrate Yale locks into their connected home,” said Jason Williams, President, ASSA ABLOY U.S. Residential Group, which includes Yale Residential.

Yale offers an extensive line of electronic deadbolts that can be used as standalone products or upgraded with a Yale Network Module to work with a variety of alarm and home automation systems. In addition to the iM1 Network Module, Yale offers Z-Wave Plus and Zigbee modules that can be inserted into push button, touchscreen and key free deadbolts. Once a module is inserted into the lock, it can be enrolled into a home alarm or automation system with the push of a button.

The new Yale iM1 Network Module will initially be compatible with two Yale Assure locks the new Assure Lock SL (YRD256) and the Assure Lock Key Free Touchscreen (YRD246). The module is available to purchase at Best Buy, Lowes SmartSpot Powered by B8ta stores, Lowes.com and P.C. Richard & Son. The Assure Lock SL and Assure Lock Key Free Touchscreen with the iM1 Network Module installed are available on Amazon.com.

The suggested retail price for an Assure Lock with the iM1 Network Module is $219.99. The module is available separately for $49.99.

Source: Yale