Kwikset takes a smart approach with its new smart lock

The Halo Select smart lock is Kwikset’s first to support Matter. It works over Thread and can also be used as a Wi-Fi lock. | Image: Kwikset

The Halo Select is Kwikset’s first new smart lock in five years, and its new features, updated design, and creative approach to connectivity could make the long wait worthwhile.

The Halo Select is a ground up redesign of the company’s Halo line and its first lock to support Matter. It works with the new standard over the low-power, mesh networking protocol Thread and, interestingly, has the option of skipping Matter and using Wi-Fi.

“You have Wi-Fi, which is what most customers want today, but it’s also future-proofed with Matter and Thread.”

It’s a clever move by Kwikset. Smart locks have limited features in Matter today, but the standard offers greater interoperability and Thread promises better battery life (a key feature in a…