Can't Find a Feature on Your Yale Device?
When you invest in a Yale smart lock or security system, you expect to use all of its advertised features. It can be confusing and frustrating when a feature like Auto-Unlock, voice assistant integration, or guest access doesn't appear in the app or work as expected. This guide will help you identify the common reasons why features might be missing and how to resolve them.
## Common Reasons for Missing Yale Features
Most of the time, a "missing" feature isn't a fault with the device itself, but rather a configuration or compatibility issue. Here are the primary culprits:
- Outdated Software: The Yale Access app or the device's firmware may need updating.
- Missing Hardware: Some features, particularly remote access and integrations, require the Yale Connect Wi-Fi Bridge.
- Incorrect Settings: Permissions for Bluetooth, location services, or notifications may be disabled on your smartphone.
- Compatibility: The feature may not be available for your specific model of lock or in your region.
- Account Issues: The feature may only be available to the "Owner" of the lock, not to users with "Guest" access.
Troubleshooting Steps to Find and Enable Features
Work through these solutions to get your Yale device working to its full potential.
### 1. Update Everything
The first and most important step is to ensure all software components are up to date.
- Update the Yale Access App: Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and check for updates to the Yale Access app.
- Update Device Firmware: In the app, go to the settings for your lock or device. If a firmware update is available, you will be prompted to install it. This is crucial for security and feature enhancements.
- Update Your Phone's OS: Ensure your smartphone is running the latest version of iOS or Android.
### 2. Check for Necessary Hardware (Wi-Fi Bridge)
Many of Yale's most powerful features depend on an internet connection, which the Bluetooth-only locks do not have on their own.
- Do you need remote access? To lock/unlock your door from anywhere, see a history of events in real-time, or integrate with Alexa and Google Assistant, you must have a Yale Connect Wi-Fi Bridge installed and paired with your lock.
- If you don't have this bridge, features that rely on an internet connection will not be available in your app.
### 3. Verify Your Smartphone's Settings
The Yale Access app needs certain permissions from your phone to function correctly.
- Enable Bluetooth: Your phone's Bluetooth must be turned on to communicate with the lock when you are nearby.
- Enable Location Services: For features like Auto-Unlock, you must grant the Yale Access app "Always Allow" access to your location. This is how the app determines when you are leaving home and returning.
- Enable Notifications: Make sure you have allowed the app to send you notifications for alerts about your lock's status.
### 4. Confirm Your Access Level
Not all users have the same permissions.
- In the Yale Access app, go to the "Guest List".
- Check if your access level is set to Owner. Only Owners have full administrative rights to add users, change lock settings, and enable or disable certain features. Users with Guest access will have a more limited set of options.
### 5. Check Model and Regional Compatibility
While Yale strives for consistency, there can be variations.
- Double-check the product page or manual for your specific smart lock model to confirm the features it supports.
- Some features may be rolled out in certain regions before others. Check Yale's official website for announcements specific to your country.
Still Can't Find the Feature?
If you have worked through all the steps above and are confident that a feature should be available for your device, it's time to seek further help. Contact Yale's customer support team with your device's serial number, your app version, and a clear description of the feature you are unable to access.