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August Smart Lock makes home security social

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The August Smart Lock fits onto existing deadbolts
The August Smart Lock fits onto existing deadbolts
The device makes use of replaceable AA batteries as a power source, so will remain operational even in the event of a power-cut
Users can issue up to 10 "virtual keys" to guests who also own an iPhone 4S or 5
The August Smart Lock fits onto existing deadbolts and the designers reckon it should be a quick two-screw installation job for around 90 percent of US deadbolts
The August Smart Lock will be available later this year, though pre-orders are open now, at an introductory price of US$199
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The August Smart Lock is a new product by designer Yves Béhar and technology entrepreneur Jason Johnson, which updates the humble door lock for the "Internet of Things" era. The device can be retrofitted to existing deadbolts and employs Bluetooth Low Energy technology in order to pair with an iPhone 4S or iPhone 5, and allow access for you and up to 10 of your iPhone-wielding friends.

Smart locks are nothing new in of themselves, and here at Gizmag we've covered both the Lockitron and DoorBot systems in the past. However, the design pedigree that Béhar brings to the table, coupled with an interesting social networking element, could perhaps make the August Smart Lock the gadget that moves smart locks into the mainstream.

The August Smart Lock fits onto existing door deadbolts, and its designers reckon that installation should be a quick two-screw job for around 90 percent of US-based deadbolts. Once it's up and running, users simply approach their door with their iPhone on their person – and open sesame, no hands required.

The August Smart Lock fits onto existing deadbolts and the designers reckon it should be a quick two-screw installation job for around 90 percent of US deadbolts

The device makes use of replaceable AA batteries as a power source, so will remain operational even in the event of a power-cut. If the batteries run out, the original deadbolt key will continue to work.

The August Smart Lock also allows users to issue up to 10 "virtual keys" for their iPhone-owning guests. This access can be set to be valid during a certain time frame only, and is also logged, thus lending a greater degree of security than simply cutting a spare key and hoping for the best.

The lock also features a social networking aspect, with the August app including a Guestbook function that lets hosts leave a comment or photo that will be sent to visitors upon their arrival. The guests can then return the favor by leaving a comment via the app when they leave.

The August Smart Lock also uses the same communication encryption technology commonly used in banks, so should be suitably secure from hackers.

The August Smart Lock will be available later this year, though pre-orders are open now, at an introductory price of US$199.

Product page: August

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6 comments
MBadgero
Not sure how secure this lock is without hitting it with a hammer, or if it comes apart with simple tools from the outside. The hammer test could be a bit expensive. Not much information on the August web site either.
BigGoofyGuy
Having it only for iPhone users is very limiting to who would be interested in it. I hope they expand it to all smart phones. This makes more sense to me. Otherwise, I think it is really cool.
Slowburn
re; MBadgero
Presumably the device is not on the outside of the door.
Bill Bennett
MBadgero, the stock lock is still outside, this is inside, regards, Billy Ray Bob, still buy it and hit it with a hammer from inside your house if you want, post photos
kellory
Will it release automatically in the event of a fire? you may not have time to grab your phone, or it may be dead. Is that an interior release button at the bottom? If batteries are dead, how is it released from the inside?
techtorpedo.com
Is it just me or do deadbolts and bluetooth just don't go together?