Kwikset, longtime makers of locks and keys, have announced that their new Kevo deadbolt lock will be available for pre-order starting today. The Kevo looks like a standard deadbolt style lock that you might find installed in most doors. But it uses Bluetooth Low Energy™ 4.0 technology to turn your smartphone into an electronic key (eKey). Once configured, you don’t even need to remove your phone from your pocket. Just walk up and touch the Kevo to unlock the lock. They’ve partnered with UniKey to make sure that the Kevo offers maximum security:
With Kwikset’s long-time leadership in residential door lock security and UniKey’s expertise in secured authentication technology, Kevo is engineered for both maximum security and technology performance. Kevo includes UniKey’s patent-pending intelligent positioning technology that detects whether an authorized user is inside or outside of the home before granting access to prevent unauthorized entry. Kevo also uses multiple levels of encryption to increase digital security, and is tested to some of the most stringent lock picking and physical security standards. The lock contains Kwikset’s patented SmartKey® re-key technology, which provides superior security and re-key convenience unlike any other smart lock on the market.
The only down side is that the Kevo is currently only compatible with the iPhone 4S or 5. But, it does come with a fob that that has the same touch to open feature. Just put it in your pocket or purse and you’re all set.
The Kevo smart lock package includes one deadbolt, one fob, two mechanical keys and two smartphone eKeys available for download. The deadbolt comes in three finishes including Satin Nickel, Venetian Bronze and Polished Brass. Kevo operates on four AA batteries, which should last for a year, depending on usage. The Kwikset Kevo can be pre-ordered beginning July 30 for the suggested price of $219, with products to begin shipping in September.
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We replaced ours a couple of years ago with the NextBolt NX3 biometric lock (fingerprint recognition):
http://www.rainydaymagazine.com/RDM2011/Home/August/Week4/RDMHomeAug2611.htm#NextBoltNX3_FirstLook
http://www.rainydaymagazine.com/RDM2011/Home/September/Week2/RDMHomeSep0611.htm#DoorLockKit
http://www.rainydaymagazine.com/RDM2011/Home/September/Week2/RDMHomeSep0711.htm#NextBoltNX3_Installation
The one thing we noticed was we had to take our gloves off in the winter to open the door…so this Kevo, with the wireless connection, is a pretty nice solution for that particular problem!
@Rainy Hmmmmm, I’m wondering if you would still need to take off your gloves for this lock too. I wonder if it needs a capacitive type touch?
Hmmm… at least there can be a tech solution (those special gloves with the conductive patch at the finger tip). Having to take the gloves off is the only drawback we have found with these locks. That and the change in humidity/temp changes can sometimes make it hard for the deadbolt to retract/extend cleanly…so you have to check to make sure the door IS locked.
Still, never having to worry about being locked out is great. To those who think these are somehow less “secured,” the reality is that locks are a minor obstacle to someone bent on getting into a typical house.
Honey whats that man doing outside to his door? It’s indecent, hide the kids. Hello Police? Yes there is a man outside our apartment, he appears to be ummm seducing the neighbors door. No sir I haven’t been drinking. Ok thanks for sending someone.
“No no, I left my phone in the house, I’m trying to get in, honestly, help help don’t take me to jail…………..” Man convicted of lewd or lascivious acts with an apartment door. Man loosed his job, his wife leaves him, gets custody of the kids, and he can no longer live withing 1000 feet of a school. Remember to always carry a spare key. 🙂
I like it, but I also like the convenience of one with keypad. I have been using a deadbolt with keypad made by Kwikset for a year now and it is great. One advantage with a lock with keypad is that if you have small children they can use them without having to carry a key fob, a key, or an iPhone. Sure, it’s nice to be able to touch the lock and it’s unlocked, but it’s not that much more trouble to enter a 4-6 digit number.
The one advantage of not having a keypad is a cleaner look.
Been following this since it was pitched on Shark Tank a few seasons back, so it’s cool to see it finally come to market. I’m, not thrilled that they feel the need to charge extra for every E-Key above the 2 provided initially. How much per I haven’t seen but if I have to give one each to the petsitter, occasional repair person, in-laws, housesitter etc. it’s going to get ridiculous. It’s a CODE, not an extra piece of hardware – seems like gouging but we’ll see how the launch goes.
@Slapster…We agree. That is just silly to charge extra for generating an e-key code. It would annoy us to no end as well.
If they want to use the razor/blade model, then they should sell the lock at $50 and make the money on keys. Otherwise, it will just annoy instead of delight their installed base every time they need a new key.
This is a great smart lock which can be controlled through our smartphones and for this bluetooth is a must.But it got some flaws and the manufacturers should give attention to those and try to fix them as they will face a lot competition from same kind of locks or better than this one.So improvements are needed.First our mobiles became smart and now it’s time for the homes.