Next to Ultra HD TVs, the big things for the home are smart locks. Sure, the products don’t look as big or as pretty. However, they are way more affordable, with new smart lock models popping up every day.
The category is getting smarter, as well as bigger. Yale Locks & Hardware just announced a pair of new Z-Wave-enhanced deadbolts. The Yale Real Living Key Free Push Button B1L and Key Free Touchscreen T1L Deadbolts offer key-free operation in push-button and touchscreen models.
Each of these new home security locks eliminates the cylinder, which should translate into an easier installation process. It also promises a little extra security, since they can’t be picked or bumped. Once installed in the door, the smart locks can be paired with Z-Wave technology at the touch of a button. No keying is required.
According to Yale Locks, these new options are some of the smallest residential keypads for a Z-Wave lock. The push-button version has a black push-button keypad, while the touchscreen model has a durable black acrylic capacitive touchscreen. Both illuminate when touched.
Other features on the Key Free B1L and T1L include a fully gasketed installation, ANSI/BHMA grade 2 certification, motorized tapered deadbolts, and intuitive phone layout keypads. Each one can also deliver “low battery” email and text alerts. Of course, since these locks are “smart,” they also have Z-Wave support, allowing users to lock and unlock doors from web-enabled devices, as well as create customized entry scenes for family members, neighbors and guests.
“Our smart locks demonstrate our commitment to product innovation, enhanced security and improved aesthetics,” said Jason Williams, general manager of Yale Residential. “They also show our commitment to the security dealer market by providing products that increase the dealer’s efficiency, help provide a better customer experience and deliver superior value.”
Yale’s Z-Wave key-free deadbolts work in conjunction with a wide range of home: security systems, including Alarm.com’s emPower, Honeywell’s Total Connect, DSC, and the Vera Z-Wave home control system by Mi Casa Verde, among others.
Then there’s the home security lock collection from a company called NextLock, which includes the SmartHub and the SmartFob.
The SmartHub is a deadbolt smart lock, with a motion-activated camera that allows homeowners to see who’s lurking on the other side of the door. It uses Z-Wave to communicate with those visitors. It can also track history and activity, so you can keep tabs on who is stopping by and when.
Users can tap into the SmartHub from any web-enabled computer, as well as the NextLock app. This provides a place to remotely lock and unlock the door, chat with visitors, manage user credentials, and more.
NextLock is also planning to release the SmartFob, which is a universal key fob for your SmartHub. In other words, if you, your kids or anyone else who needs to get into your house doesn’t have a smartphone, you’ll want them to have a SmartFob. You also may want one since it can be paired with lights, thermostats, and anything else with Z-Wave technology.
NextLock is hoping to be the next big thing and has introduced the SmartSync API and SmartKit IPK, so developers can get in on the action.
NextLock is currently taking pre-orders for the SmartHub and the SmartFob. The products are priced at $299 and $99, respectively. If you want one of each, you can also score a package price of $358.
Meanwhile, Kwikset is also doing its best to lead the smart lock race. The company first started selling the super-cool Kevo Smart Lock last October. This summer, it will receive a very interesting update.
Kwikset has debuted the Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth Gateway. This will allow current and future Kwikset Kevo users to remotely lock and unlock doors using just a smartphone.
Currently, the Kevo uses Bluetooth 4.0 to turn your smartphone into an electronic key (eKey). Technically, you can keep your phone in your pocket, but you need to be in front of the door. From there, you can just touch the smart lock with your finger to gain access.
Besides the remote access, Kwikset plans to add real-time notifications to the Kwikset Kevo iPhone app. This will let users know when the door is locked or unlocked by touch, fob, or a traditional key.
“Kwikset is quickly expanding the value Kevo delivers to current and future owners through a series of Kevo technology advancements, beginning with remote functionality, based on the desires of today’s consumer,” said Keith Brandon, director of residential access solutions for Kwikset. “Kevo continues to be the breakthrough home security lock technology on the market, gaining recognition from the CES Innovation Awards, among many others.”
The Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth Gateway is expected to launch shortly. The Kwikset Kevo is selling now, with an MSRP of $219.99.
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