Google Home separates unlatch from unlock for compatible European locks

Google's August 20, 2026, Home release notes add separate unlatch and unlock controls for compatible European-style smart locks. Google also says the app can show more exact door states, including "Unlocked and latched." Matterhome has not tested the change, and Google warns that new Home features can take time to reach everyone.

That distinction solves a real door problem. Unlocking a European retrofit lock can release the secured cylinder or multipoint mechanism while leaving the spring latch engaged. Unlatching retracts that latch so the door can open. An app that treats both actions as one generic unlock button can leave owners reaching for the lock maker's app when they want to admit a visitor or open a door without touching the handle.

Google has not named compatible models

The update is useful, but its scope is unusually vague. Google does not list lock models, required firmware, supported countries, or an app version for the new control. It also does not say whether "compatible" means Matter locks, Works with Google Home integrations, or both.

Google's Matter support table confirms that Door Lock is a supported device type, but the same page says many Matter device types are not fully supported. It also keeps an important security limit: remote unlocking is disabled on every Google surface for Matter locks that do not require a PIN, and voice unlocking is disabled. The August 20 note does not say those rules changed.

Owners of European Matter retrofit locks such as Aqara Smart Lock U200, Nuki Smart Lock Pro, or Yale Linus L2 Lite should update Google Home and inspect the existing lock tile. Those are examples to check, not a Google compatibility list. Look for separate latch and lock actions, confirm that the displayed state matches the physical door, and test while standing beside the lock with a key or another entry method available. Do that before relying on remote entry or buying another lock for the same setup.