Smart Locks: How to Lock and Unlock Your Door with Your Phone (2026)

In 2011 we covered Lockitron, an early gadget that let you lock or unlock your door from your phone and send temporary keys to guests. It cost $295 and needed a wired base station. Today a smart lock does all that and more, often fitting over your existing deadbolt and working with voice assistants. Here’s what to know in 2026.

Quick answer: A smart lock replaces or fits over your door’s deadbolt and connects to your phone by Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Thread or a hub. You can lock and unlock from an app, share time-limited digital keys, get alerts, and auto-unlock as you arrive. Pick one that fits your door, supports your ecosystem (Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa or Matter) and still has a physical key or keypad backup.

How smart locks work

• Bluetooth: unlocks when your phone is nearby; add a bridge for remote control.
• Wi-Fi: remote access built in, but uses more battery.
• Thread and Matter: newer, low-power standards that work across Apple, Google, Amazon and Samsung platforms.
• Keypad, fingerprint or NFC: alternatives to the app, including Apple Home Key on some models.

Useful smart lock features

• Guest keys that work only at set times, ideal for family, cleaners or rentals.
• Activity log showing who came and went.
• Auto-lock after the door closes.
• Low-battery alerts and backup power options.

What to check before buying

1. Door compatibility: deadbolt type, door thickness, and whether it’s a retrofit (keeps your key) or full replacement.
2. Ecosystem: Matter support makes future changes easier.
3. Backup entry: physical key, keypad or emergency battery contacts.
4. Security: look for strong encryption, two-factor login in the app, and regular firmware updates.
5. Local brands and service in your country.

Security tips

• Protect the lock’s app with a strong password and two-factor authentication.
• Keep your home Wi-Fi strong and your router secured.
• Remove guest access when it’s no longer needed.
• Replace batteries before they run flat.

The Matter standard explains which devices work together across platforms.

FAQ

Can smart locks be hacked?

Any connected device can have flaws, but reputable locks use strong encryption. Keep firmware updated and secure your accounts.

What happens if the battery dies?

You’ll get warnings first; most locks also have a key, keypad backup or emergency battery contacts.

Do smart locks work without internet?

Bluetooth and keypad unlocking usually still work; remote access needs a connection.

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