By way of the FCC, we see August is primed to shortly expand their lineup with a Smart Keypad. Whatever that is. While we loved the aesthetics of their original Yves Behar-designed smart lock, we ultimately preferred Kevo to August — choosing functionality over form. Yet, August appears well-funded with a stellar team… so we do expect good things from them. As to what exactly this is, it seems likely it could be another door opening solution — and it seems several in the home automation space are reaching beyond individual consumers to hotel chains and the like. It’s also possible that this could be some sort of home control panel, as I imagine August has aspirations beyond the front door.
I have been waiting for Schlage Sense to come out (http://www.schlage.com/en/home/keyless-deadbolt-locks/sense.html) to replace some locks. It sounds like it has some nice extra functionality that I don’t know that the Kevo has — plus, I remember reading (somewhere) that they had issues with the Kevo as far as actual physical security goes.
I think one of the early reviews (CNET?) was able to unlock the door from the outside while the phone was inside. It’s supposed to distinguish and didn’t in that case. As far as real world security, I guess it depends if this is prevalent and how close your phone is to your front door at any given moment. My phone isn’t within Bluetooth range on my front door (which has a Kevo) most of the time, I’d guess. Besides, my security service signs and Arlo cams will hopefully keep the bad guys several paces back. :)
The one I remember reading was something about the physical security — as in easy to physically break the key portion of the lock, not the electronic portion
Ah, I hadn’t seen that. Wonder if it’s specific to Kwikset (hardware) or to Unikey (technology)? I have other Kwikset locks around the house (which made adding Kevo real easy – rekeyed it on my own to match everything else).
I think it was the Kwikset hardware but don’t remember. I just remember it was something that made me hesitant to purchase (of course, I could be making this all up).
@Michael @Dave All the new Kwikset locks that have the pinhole on the side can be opened with a flathead screwdriver. This includes the Kevo.
It’s a HUGE vulnerability, making the key itself effectively worthless. Kwikset has been brushing it under the rug but a class action lawsuit and an exposé in Wired aren’t helping: http://www.wired.com/2013/08/kwikset-smarkey-lock-vulns/
Wow… that is insane!
I have a Kevo too and according to the videos I’ve seen, Kwikset improved their cylinders for Kevo back in 2013 to prevent the screwdriver attack.
As for this August device, looks like a HID prox keypad.
It’s good to know they’re looking into expanding. I always thought the idea of requiring your HVAC guy/dog walker/maid/babysitter to install an app to open your house was a bit of a joke. At least the keypad is a universally available alternative.
@Jody — that is my thinking exactly and why I like the idea of the Schlage Sense I posted above — it has keypad and bluetooth. I can’t see having someone else install an app temporarily, but at the same time, I like the thought of walking up to the door and it opening without a key via bluetooth.
Another August thing passed thru the FCC today…
https://twitter.com/davezatz/status/636570073948418049