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Works with Alexa or Google Home — Is Voice Control Actually Useful?

In my previous article, I mentioned that installing a gateway allows your smart lock to connect with Alexa or Google Home.


That’s when voice control comes into the picture — and it turns out to be a really practical bonus of installing a gateway.


Some have heard the names.

Some aren’t sure what they actually do.

And some are wondering whether they’re really useful — or just another “smart home” gimmick.


For me, the moment it truly made sense —was in the kitchen.



So there I was, cooking away—hands full, music playing in the background—and suddenly, the doorbell rings.


Normally, I’d have to stop what I’m doing, wipe my hands, dig out my phone, open the app, and press unlock. A whole thing.


But this time?


I just said, “Alexa, unlock the front door.”

That’s it.


Door unlocked.

Music kept playing.

Dinner stayed perfectly on track.


That’s when I realised:

This isn’t about being “smart”.

It’s about being convenient when your hands are busy.


So ...what are Alexa and Google Home, anyway?


In simple terms, Alexa (Amazon) and Google Home (Google Assistant) are voice assistants. They let you control connected devices using your voice instead of your phone.


That can mean:

  • Turning lights on or off

  • Playing music or podcasts

  • Setting timers while cooking

  • And — with a gateway installed — controlling your smart lock

Just talking.



What Can Alexa or Google Home Actually Do with a Smart Lock?



Once your TTLock is connected through a gateway, Alexa or Google Home can make your life easier by:

  • Locking or unlocking the door with just your voice

  • Checking if the door is locked (“Is the front door locked?”)

  • Adding the lock to routines (like “Good night” to turn off lights and lock the door)

  • Managing access without opening the TTLock app


It doesn’t replace the app — it just removes that one extra step when your hands are full or your phone isn’t nearby.



Here are the most common (and actually useful) things you can use them for:

🔊 Common Voice Commands

You can say things like:

“Alexa, lock the front door.”

“Hey Google, is the front door locked?”


That’s usually all you need in daily life.


For security, unlocking by voice often requires extra confirmation, like a PIN, or it might even be disabled in some regions — and honestly, that’s exactly how it should be.


Voice assistants are designed to be convenient, not risky.



Where Voice Control Actually Helps

On paper, voice commands sound simple. But they really shine when your hands — and your attention — are already full.


For me, one of those moments was at home, in the middle of bath time.



A friend stopped by to drop something off. At the same time, I was bathing my daughter.


With wet hands, a slippery floor, and no phone nearby, there was no way I could step away.


Instead of rushing out or asking them to wait,

I just said: “Alexa, unlock the front door.”


They came in and waited. I finished bath time calmly.


No running. No juggling a phone with wet hands.

That’s when it clicked for me.


This isn’t about being “smart”. It’s about making everyday moments smoother — especially when you’re busy.


Or It can be a bedtime Relief (and saving your marriage)

We’ve all been there. You’ve finally crawled into bed.


The pillows are perfect, the blankets are warm, and you’re just about to drift off… when that tiny, nagging thought hits you:

“Wait… did I actually lock the front door?”


In the past, this usually led to a late-night Rock-Paper-Scissors battle with your partner to see who has to leave the warm cocoon and walk across the freezing floor. The loser drags themselves out, grumbling all the way.


But with voice control, the "battle" is over before it starts.



You don't even have to open your eyes. You just mumble,

“Alexa, is the front door locked?”

or“Hey Google, lock the door.”


Hearing that mechanical click from the hallway while you’re snuggled up is pure bliss. It’s peace of mind without the cold feet — or the argument.



So… Is voice control really worth it?

Well, it’s not for everyone—and that’s totally fine.


✅ It’s a game changer if:

  • You’ve got people coming and going all the time

  • You have kids, elderly family, or your hands are always full

  • You’re already jamming with Google Home or Alexa for music, lights, or timers


❌ Skip it if:

  • You live solo

  • Your door’s always just steps away

  • You just want simple keyless entry, no fuss


A smart lock opens the door.

Voice control opens a smoother way of living.

 
 
 

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