We’ve seen add-ons for locks, such as the Lockitron, that allow you to control them via smartphone. But why opt for a retrofit solution when a lock with built-in smart features is available? That’s exactly the case with the Kevo.
Made by Kwikset, it’s a smart deadbolt with a Bluetooth 4.0 radio built-in that allows it to communicate with your smartphone. Just install it in place of your existing locks and you’ve got yourself a smart locking system that doesn’t look alll that much different from existing setups. Just use the companion app (iPhone only) or the web portal to lock and unlock your door’s bolts.
The Kevo doesn’t just restrict you to locking and unlocking the door using a smartphone, of course — you can use a key, as well, much like traditional locking systems. Even better, it comes with a key fob that you can use to open the door by simply touching the lock, provided you have the key fob on your person. Yep, you can now unlock your door by simply caressing the lock like magic. Need to give people access to your home? Instead of making a duplicate key, simply pass them a virtual one via the app and they can open your door with just their phone, too. You can take back the key at any time, as well, so you don’t have to change the locks when you kick out the roommate who missed his share of the last three rent cycles.
In appearance, the lock is styled similar to regular door locks, so you don’t get weird-looking boxes attached to your door as with add-on solutions. There is, however, a ring around the surface that lights up blue when it senses your presence (i.e. you have the key fob with you), then turns green when the bolt is disengaged.
No pricing has been announced, but the Kwikset Kevo should hit stores in the summer.