Kwikset’s Kevo Bluetooth (BLE) smart locks for doors can finally integrate with home automation systems thanks to a new Home Connect Bridge that translates ZigBee and Z-Wave commands into Bluetooth for controlling the lock.
When Kwikset introduced arguably the first Bluetooth door lock a few years ago, it didn’t do all that much. It didn’t connect to the Internet, for example. It only talked directly to a smart phone for local locking and unlocking functions.
Last year, Kwikset introduced the Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth Gateway, a BLE-to-Wi-Fi device that finally enabled Kevo to connect to the Internet.
And now, at the International Security Conference (ISC) in Las Vegas this week, Kwikset is showing integration with ZigBee and Z-Wave via the new bridge.
Users could, for example, use a Z-Wave-enabled security system to lock the door automatically when the alarm is set to “Away.”
“Kevo, working in conjunction with a high-quality home security system, creates a stronger overall security scheme for the homeowner,” says Keith Brandon, director of Residential Access Solutions for Kwikset.
It is unclear if the Kwikset Bridge incorporates the Z-Wave security command sets for smart locks, garage door controllers and other access-control devices—these command sets carry an added layer of security to Z-Wave communications – or if the locks are considered basic on/off devices with the security of a light switch.
It appears from the press release that the ZigBee and Z-Wave integration only enables a control system to lock and unlock Kevo smart locks. At ISC we’ll see if the bridge provides feedback from the Kevo, such as when it was locked and unlocked … and by whom. These features are available with most native ZigBee and Z-Wave devices.
It appears also from the press release that there is no IP connectivity in the new Bridge, meaning you’d have to double-up with Kevo’s Bluetooth Gateway to enjoy Internet connectivity.
The Kevo Home Connect Bridge features an LED status indicator and pairing buttons for device enrollment.
Read about more smart locks here.
Sam says
We have a keypad for the gaagre door, and a keypad from the gaagre into the house. And I have programmed them to different combinations, so even if you could guess one number, you can’t get into the house. When we’re traveling, I set the gaagre door to lockout the remote, so that no one could use that to break into the house. This works well enough, and I’m not dependent on some startup with an uncertain future.Fringe benefit: my 10-year-old son doesn’t need to remember a key to get into the house.