Tag Archives: Home Security

Kwikset adds Remote Unlocking to Kevo at CES



Kwikset KevoThe Kwikset Kevo is a deadbolt lock that uses Bluetooth communication as well as a physical key to lock and unlock doors. Currently it only works with Apple iPhones but it looks really cool. You walk up to the door, touch the Kevo lock, the lock checks your eKey on your phone and the door opens. There’s a whole host of clever features based around eKeys which can be transferred to people you trust and owners can receive notifications of when the lock is opened. The glossy video below shows the main features of the Kevo.

The Kevo has been available for a few months and at CES, Kwikset are responding to customer feedback with new enhancements to the Kevo lock system. The Kevo Bluetooth Gateway will be available in the summer and the unit will allow owners to remotely lock and unlock Kevo using their smartphone, say when a relative visits from out of town or a neighbour unexpectedly needs to feed pets.

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, residential access solutions. “Kevo continues to be the breakthrough smart lock technology on the market, gaining recognition from the CES Innovation Awards, among many others.

As you might expect, the Kevo locks don’t come cheap at around US$220 but it looks like a neat solution and once Kwikset (a) get it working on Android and (b) produce a UK version, I might well be interested.


Two New Products from iSmartAlarm at CES



iSmartAlarm switchHome security is very important. We all want to ensure that our families, homes, and “stuff” are safe. Those of you who are considering getting some home security devices this year may want to take a look at iSmartAlarm. They have not one, but two, brand new products at CES 2014. Each of them can be used to extend the capabilities of the existing iSmartAlarm Home Security System.

The iSmartAlarm Doorfront is a new control tool. It will alert you via your smartphone when someone comes to your front door or rings your doorbell. It enables you to see, hear, and speak to the visitors – even if you are away from home. You can do that through your smartphone.

The iSmartAlarm Smart Switch is a natural extension of the iSmartAlarm Home Security System. It is a switch that you can use to remotely control the lights in your home. Use it to control electrical outlets, monitor if your lights have been turned on or off, and ensure that potentially dangerous appliances have been turned off (when they aren’t in use). It also lets you monitor energy usage.

These two brand new products can be set up within minutes without the need for professional installation. Each is part of the iSmartAlarm home control ecosystem. They are compatible with both iPhone and Android devices.

You can check out the new products from iSmartAlarm at CES 2014. They will be part of Pepcom’s Digital Experience Press event at The Mirage. You can also find them at booth #6717.


Yale Locks Brings High Tech to the Common Door



Yale has new home door locks that bring a high-tech flare to your house.  These aren’t your average doorsets – they have touch-screens and smartphone apps.  You can buy the locks alone from many retailers, like Amazon,  however, they are big with custom installers of home security systems. Now they have introduced NFC (near field communication) to their locks.  That means you don’t need a key or a code.  Your phone alone can unlock the door just by being close to it.  If you are worried about your phone being lost or stolen then you can set up a secondary line of security such as a pass code.  You can also revoke a mobile key via the web site if a phone gets lost.  In addition, you can assign a separate code to each person in your home and even have the lock send you a text when someone passes through the door.  Yale Locks are available on the market today, and the ones with NFC technology will be arriving soon.  Prices and availability have not yet been determined.

You can find out more at Yale. Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network.

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