An honest look at the much-anticipated smart lock’s release date and the UWB alternatives you can consider right now.

You know that feeling when a company announces a new piece of tech, and you start imagining exactly how it will fit into your life? That’s how a lot of us in the smart home world felt about the promised Schlage UWB lock. Earlier this year, there was a lot of buzz about a new lock that would use Ultra-Wideband technology to make getting into your home completely seamless. The future was supposed to be now, but as we head deeper into the year, many of us are looking at our doors and asking… so, where is it?

If you’ve been waiting patiently, you’re not alone. The initial announcement pointed to a release in “Spring 2025.” But here we are in October, and a quick search of store shelves and online retailers shows it’s still missing in action. Let’s talk about what’s going on, what makes this tech so cool, and what you can do if you’re tired of waiting.

What’s the Big Deal with a Schlage UWB Lock Anyway?

First, let’s quickly break down what UWB even is. Ultra-Wideband is a short-range wireless communication protocol that’s incredibly precise. Think of it like a super-powered GPS for your living room. Instead of just knowing your phone is near the door, like Bluetooth does, UWB knows its exact location, direction, and motion.

So, why does that matter for a door lock?
* Truly Hands-Free Entry: With UWB, you wouldn’t have to pull out your phone or tap it to the lock. The system would be smart enough to know you’re right outside your door and intending to enter, automatically unlocking for you. No more fumbling with groceries to find your phone.
* Enhanced Security: This spatial awareness makes it much more secure than other protocols. It can prevent relay attacks, where a thief might try to trick your lock by amplifying your phone’s signal from a distance. UWB knows your phone isn’t actually at the door.

Schlage is a giant in the lock industry, known for reliability. Combining their trusted hardware with this new, seamless technology is a big deal for anyone who wants their smart home to be, well, smarter. You can read more about the underlying tech in this great explainer on how UWB works from How-To Geek.

The Waiting Game: Where is the Schlage UWB Lock?

The original announcement, made during the tech showcases at the beginning of the year, set the expectation for a Spring 2025 release. But spring came and went. The reality of manufacturing and perfecting new technology is that delays are common.

Bringing a product like this to market is complex. It involves:
* Perfecting the hardware so it’s durable and reliable.
* Fine-tuning the software to be bug-free and secure.
* Navigating the inevitable supply chain hurdles.

While Schlage hasn’t given a formal, updated release date, it’s safe to assume they’re taking the time to get it right. For official updates, the best place to keep an eye on is the Schlage newsroom on their website. Rushing a security product to market is a bad idea for everyone, so a delay is frustrating but ultimately a good thing if it means a more secure and reliable lock.

Can’t Wait? UWB Lock Alternatives You Can Buy Today

Patience is a virtue, but sometimes you just want the cool new tech now. If you’re tired of waiting for the Schlage UWB lock, the good news is that other brands have already brought similar products to market.

One of the most popular alternatives is the Aqara Smart Lock U100. It’s a full-featured smart lock that already incorporates UWB for that hands-free, phone-in-your-pocket unlocking experience. It also works with Apple Home Key and has a keypad, fingerprint reader, and a physical keyway as backups. It’s a solid choice if you want to experience UWB right now and are invested in the Apple ecosystem.

While the feature set is impressive, the main consideration is brand trust. Many people have years of experience with Schlage and prefer to stick with what they know. But if you’re feeling adventurous, exploring brands like Aqara can give you a glimpse into the future today.

So, the big question remains: should you wait for Schlage or jump on an available alternative?

Honestly, there’s no wrong answer. If you’re a long-time Schlage user and value its reputation for rock-solid security, it’s probably worth waiting a bit longer. They’ll likely deliver a polished, reliable product that integrates well with their existing systems. But if your priority is getting that seamless UWB experience as soon as possible, then checking out the alternatives might be the right move for you.

What about you? Are you holding out for the Schlage, or have you already picked up a different UWB lock? I’d love to hear your thoughts.