Since Apple introduced home key, it has quickly become one of the most important features for smart locks. Basic HomeKit support just doesn’t cut it anymore. Unlocking your front door with just a tap from an iPhone or Apple Watch feels magical, and once you’ve experienced it, it’s hard to imagine going back to keys or even an app. Level was one of the first companies to embrace home key, and now it’s back with its most advanced product yet: the Level Lock Pro. It’s the smallest smart lock you can buy, it disappears into your door (doesn’t look like a smart lock at all), and it has Matter over Thread built in. Some of my favorite gear eufyCam 2C Upgrade your home security with wireless cameras that includes HomeKit compatibility. HomeKit Weekly is a series focused on smart home accessories, automation tips and tricks, and everything to do with Apple’s smart home framework. What’s included in Level Lock Pro When you open the box, you get everything you need to replace your existing deadbolt with the Level Lock Pro. Inside is the lock itself, a strike plate, mounting hardware, a CR2 battery, two standard keys, and two NFC key fobs. The fobs work just like home key on your iPhone or Apple Watch. You tap them on the lock and the door opens. I find them useful for kids without iPhones. The company also sells an optional keypad if you want to use PIN codes for people who need to enter your home on a temporary basis, but it is not required to get started. The battery comes pre installed, so most people can have it running in under fifteen minutes with just a Phillips head screwdriver. Like previous Level products, it fits standard deadbolt cutouts and aims to disappear inside the doorjamb. If your door has the common bore hole size and backset length, you will be able to install it without extra drilling. For thinner doors, spacers are included so the lock stays secure. All in all, installation for Level Lock Pro is similar to all deadbolts, smart and non smart alike. Some of my favorite gear Aqara Smart Lock U50 Upgrade your doors with Apple Home Key and the Aqara U50. Key features The headline feature of Level Lock Pro is Matter over Thread. That means it connects quickly, stays reliable, and works across all the major platforms including Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Samsung SmartThings. It also supports Bluetooth connections as a backup so the lock keeps working even if the internet or power is out. The lock is designed to look like a traditional deadbolt. It is 62% smaller than a traditional smart lock and sits completely inside your door. There are no bulky battery packs or external sensors on the frame. One of the most impressive parts is the new door status detection. Instead of relying on a magnetic sticker that can fall off or misalign, Level built the sensor directly into the lock so it knows if the door is open or closed without any extra hardware. Battery life looks strong from the tech specs, but I have not verified it yet. Level claims that the included CR2 battery lasts up to a year before it needs to be replaced, but your use will cause that to vary. Built in features include auto lock, activity history, guest sharing, and Apple home key support. For unlocking your door, you can use your iPhone and Apple Watch with home key, the Home app, the Level app, NFC fobs, a traditional key, or the keypad. Level Lock Pro has an IP54 weather rating and an AAA security rating. In practice, IP54 can handle everyday dust, rain, and splashes without issue. It is not designed to survive full submersion in water. If that happens, you probably have bigger problems than a smart lock. Some of my favorite gear Abode Home Security System Abode is the best home security system and includes compatibility with HomeKit. Wrap up I’ll be doing a full hands on review of Level Lock Pro soon, but based on the specs and my past experience with Level products, this looks to be an incredible smart lock. Level has always focused on combining design, security, and usability in a way that other companies often overlook. With Matter over Thread, built in door status detection, and a form factor that disappears into your door, Level Lock Pro has the potential to be the best option yet for Apple users who want a smart lock that feels natural and reliable.