#augustsmartlock

This video review by Daniel of Reno Bros talks about the August Smart Lock and key pad add on that works great for Airbnb hosting. Here you will learn all the positives, negatives, installation process, battery power, apps associated with it, and whether or not it’s worth purchasing.

August Smart Door Lock (after 3.5 months) + August Connect (after 1.5 month)

iLike mug: - Beautiful design. The best looking smart door lock on the market - auto lock and auto unlock (when they work which is 7 out of 10 times) - auto unlock feature doesn't draw too much battery out from my phone (iPhone 6 Plus) - easy to install - only need to replace lock bolt inside the house. Outside looks normal. Perfect for rental place and apartments - great customer support, quick responses

iDislike mug: - software, software, software!!! - software: no iOS HomeKit support (while their name was Apple's WWDC keynote) - software: need to re-calibrate almost once a month. Otherwise, it won't connect at all - software: slow loading or connecting (sometimes) - software: 2 clicks instead of 1 before unlock (maybe good for people who have multiple August locks. Not good for most like myself who only has one lock) - software: should have Notifications Center support for quicker access (or hopefully an Apple Watch app) - software: shortest auto lock time is 30 seconds which for some people may still find that too long (especially when auto lock feature is not working 100%) - software: no push notification (even with Connect) as what manufacture suggested when door is opened - Connect device WiFi connection is super slow. And connection has to be done manually (by pressing the Remote Connect button) - expensive, US$250 for Lock + $50 for Connect (compared to others on the market which can be $100 cheaper)

Conclusion: Beautiful hardware marries with Poor software. Not recommended!! (Until there's better software)

Update: August got back to me. Besides providing TestFlight beta app, they also answering all questions very seriously. Love their customer service!!

We've seen everything from robots that work autonomously to clean your windows, to iPad apps that change your lights' hue, but the latest home improvement technology to deservingly catch our attention is the August Smart Lock. The most recent project from celebrated designer Yves Béhar, the August Smart Lock's innovative system means you can ditch those easy to replicate—and lose—keys, and keypad codes, in favour of beautifully designed hardware and a single smartphone app which re-think home security. 

Once installed on the inside of your front door, the August Smart Lock works with your existing deadbolt to allow for both keyless and traditional keyed entry. By using Bluetooth LE, the smartphone app allows you to send virtual keys to any number of people who may need entry. Once access has been granted, you're free to set a predetermined amount of time the virtual keys will be active and even disable them at a moment's notice. The app even alerts you to when your guest has arrived and when they've left.

  While we appreciate how easy August will make giving others access to your house, we see the real benefit coming from its day-to-day usability. August will automatically unlock without requiring you or your guest to remove your phone from your pocket. And after you've entered, August auto-locks behind you. We're looking forward to the time this simple task will save you on those rushed mornings where just a few seconds mean the world of difference.

  The August Smart Lock is now available for preorder online. For a closer look at the capabilities of August, see the clever short video.