Homes are getting smarter as the Internet of things expands, and people who are always losing their keys will love the latest addition: smart locks.
A new product called the August Smart Lock launched today on August.com and in Apple stores, offering innovative technology that is purportedly simple to use.
Standing in for the typical dead-bolt lock on a door, the device locks and unlocks the door with a touch to a smartphone screen, Re/code reported.
The smart lock goes on the inside of your door, so it can't be seen from the outside, and it replaces only the inside lever that moves the deadbolt without affecting the rest of the lock.
August is a bit pricey at $250, but it offers a variety of features and options.
1. Digital "keys" can be given out to family members or anyone else who needs access to the house, and the owner can limit the amount of time that the digital keys work.
2. Auto-Lock automatically unlocks the door when you approach it by detecting your smartphone. This feature is currently only available for iPhone.
3. EverLock locks the door after 30 seconds to ensure that you never forget to lock up again.
4. Among its most handy characteristics, the smart lock doesn't depend on Internet connection or electricity to open the door. It uses standard AA batteries and communicates wirelessly through Bluetooth to connect with the August app on your smartphone.
5. Because August works through the app, if your phone is lost or stolen or has a dead battery, you can download the app on another device and log in to unlock your door.
As for caveats, both Re/code and USA TODAY reported some trouble installing the lock. August also has a network of certified locksmiths who will install the smart lock for $100.
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