Locks and keys have functioned well. But they tend to be connected with issues, too. By way of instance, what if you’d like to let someone in, but you’re not home? What if you get locked out? And what if you’d like to know who’s in your house and when?
Below you’ll find three brand-new solutions that solve existing issues and end inconveniences connected with traditional front-door locks and standard metal keys.
keyme.net
KeyMe App
Replacing a door lock with a fancy smart-phone-controlled lock is a nice idea. But physical keys do have a practical side. They do not need batteries, an online connection or even a working smart phone. They are sometimes hidden, shared and used by anyone. But how can you copy your key when you don’t have access to the original?
A new firm called KeyMe comes with an innovative solution. Use its free iOS app to take a picture of your key. Once you’ve completed that, a duplicate can be produced by a local locksmith or purchased by email through the app. The app works because locksmiths will need to understand only the sort of key that’s being made and the biting code, which specifies the thickness of the notches.
The company is also installing key-making kiosks at 7-Eleven, initially in New York. It envisions a future in which you can get locked out of your property, and then go to the local convenience store to print out a new key.
Just don’t forget your telephone when you get locked outside.
august.com
August Smart Lock – $199
The August Smart Lock is a door lock that uses your smart mobile as the key. It is not really a lock but a device that fits over your existing lock. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth and is regulated through the August app.
One advantage is convenience. Rather than your having to remove your key (or your telephone) from your pocket and manually unlock the door, the August senses your presence and just unlocks it to you. It also chimes to let you know for sure once the door is secured.
You could also share your main attribute while others possess the app. You can even place a time limit on exactly when the key will work. It keeps a log of who enters and leaves the house.
gojiaccess.com
Goji Smart Lock – $245
As with other smart-phone-controlled locks, the Goji Smart Lock keeps track of who comes in and goes out. But in addition, it requires the logging feature one step further by taking a picture of whoever is at the door and sending it to your iOS or Android telephone, whether you’re home or not. If you would like the individual to enter, you are able to unlock the door from wherever you’re.
Similar to the August and a few other comparable products, the Goji lets you text your key to other people and set up the times those keys will operate. Unlike some other products, the Goji works with a Bluetooth key fob, somewhat like a wireless vehicle key, which can be given to children or others without smart telephones.
Goji also comes with support — if something goes wrong, just call the company and a staffer will try to remotely lock or unlock the door. If it can not, the individual will send a locksmith to sort it all out.
Whether one of them or any other smart-phone-augmented key system is most suitable for you, it’s apparent that invention is knocking at your front door.
More keyless house entrance ideas from the Home Tech department