Schlage Launches Sense Pro Smart Deadbolt with Hands-Free Unlocking via iPhone or Apple Watch

At a glance:

• Schlage launches the Sense Pro smart deadbolt in the U.S. and Canada on June 29, priced at $399 and $549 respectively.
• The lock offers hands-free unlocking via iPhone or Apple Watch using Ultra Wideband technology.
• It includes Wi-Fi, Apple Home app integration, and support for Thread-enabled hubs.

Product Launch and Availability

Schlage today announced the Sense Pro smart deadbolt, which was unveiled at CES 2025, will be available for purchase in the U.S. and Canada starting June 29. The U.S. price is set at $399, while Canadian customers will pay $549. The lock will be sold through major retailers like Amazon, The Home Depot, and Lowe's, alongside select other stores. This marks a significant step for Schlage in expanding its smart home ecosystem, leveraging its established presence in traditional lock manufacturing to penetrate the connected home market.

The Sense Pro is positioned as a premium solution for homeowners seeking advanced security features. Its absence of a keyhole and reliance on digital keys align with modern trends toward keyless entry. The pricing reflects the lock's integration of cutting-edge technology, including Ultra Wideband for precise motion detection and Wi-Fi for remote management. Schlage's strategy here mirrors competitors like August and Ring, but with a focus on Apple ecosystem compatibility, which could give it an edge in markets with high iPhone and Apple Watch adoption.

Hands-Free Unlocking Technology

The core innovation of the Sense Pro lies in its hands-free unlocking capability, enabled by Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology. This system calculates the speed, trajectory, and motion of a user's device to unlock the door as they approach. For instance, if an iPhone is in a pocket or an Apple Watch is on the wrist, the lock detects the movement and triggers unlocking without requiring manual interaction. This feature is particularly useful for scenarios where users have their hands full or are approaching the door quickly.

However, the hands-free functionality is not universally available. It requires specific Apple devices: the Apple Watch Series 6 and later (excluding the SE model) running watchOS 11.5 or later, and iPhones from the 11 series and newer (excluding the SE 2, SE 3, 16e, and 17e) with iOS 18.5 or later. This exclusivity may limit adoption among users with older devices or those outside the Apple ecosystem. Additionally, the lock's keypad provides a fallback for traditional keyless entry, ensuring compatibility with users who prefer codes over mobile integration.

Wi-Fi and App Integration

The Sense Pro operates on Wi-Fi, allowing remote control via the Schlage Home app. Users can lock or unlock the door from anywhere, manage up to 250 unique access codes, set timed auto-lock schedules, and customize lock settings. The integration with Apple's Home app further enhances its appeal to users already within the Apple ecosystem, enabling seamless automation and voice control through Siri. This dual-app support ensures flexibility, though it may complicate management for users unfamiliar with both platforms.

Beyond basic functionality, the lock supports Thread, a low-power wireless protocol, allowing it to pair with Thread-enabled Apple Home hubs. Compatible devices include the Apple TV 4K (2nd and 3rd generations), HomePod (2nd generation), and HomePod mini. This Thread support enhances reliability and reduces latency compared to traditional Wi-Fi, making it a robust choice for smart home setups. However, the requirement for a compatible hub may deter users without existing Apple infrastructure.

Battery Life and Power Features

The Sense Pro uses disposable batteries, offering up to six months of battery life under normal usage. This is a practical feature for users who prefer not to deal with frequent charging. Additionally, the lock includes a built-in USB-C port for temporary power, which can be useful during battery replacements or in emergency situations. While the USB-C port is not a primary power source, it adds a layer of convenience, ensuring the lock remains operational even if batteries are low.

Future Features and Expansions

Schlage has announced that support for Samsung Wallet and Google Wallet will be added later this year. This expansion into other digital wallets could broaden the lock's appeal beyond Apple users, addressing a gap in the market where non-Apple smartphone users might prefer alternative payment or access methods. The timeline for this feature is not specified, but it aligns with Schlage's strategy to gradually increase compatibility as the product gains traction.

Apple Watch 27 and Health Monitoring Rumors

While the Sense Pro focuses on security, the article also highlights upcoming features in the Apple Watch ecosystem. watchOS 27, set to debut at Apple's WWDC 2026 keynote on June 8, is rumored to include new functionalities, though specifics remain unclear. Separately, there are ongoing rumors about the Apple Watch gaining non-invasive blood sugar monitoring capabilities, which could revolutionize diabetes management. These developments, while not directly related to the Sense Pro, underscore Apple's broader push into health tech, which may influence future smart home integrations.

Global Running Day Challenge

The article also mentions Apple's Global Running Day challenge on June 3, where users can earn an activity award by completing a 5K run. This event, while unrelated to the Sense Pro, reflects Apple's focus on promoting fitness through its Watch platform. It highlights the interconnectedness of Apple's ecosystem, where health and activity features often drive user engagement across devices.