The August Smart Lock and LOCK8 are stylish and ahead of the game (via August & LOCK8)
IoT - Smart technology - has taken over just about everything from mobile phones to cars. Now, different tech companies are shifting their focus to household and bike locks. There are a variety of locks from deadbolt to combination to give you a sense of security, but as one hacker showed, they aren't exempt from being cracked. Hacker Samy Kamkar recently posted a video on Ars Technica to show how to crack the code of a Master Lock in eight tries or less. While this brand of locks isn't used for home security, it shows the possible ways for hackers to break into more than just computers. It sounds scary, but there are two different companies looking to keep out any and all intruders.
Designer Yves Behar and tech entrepreneur Jason Johnson have joined forces to create the August Smart Lock. Rather than depending on keys or keypad codes, the August Smart Lock uses your existing deadbolt and a bluetooth connection to create a virtual key users can share with desired family members and guests. A companion smartphone app will lock and unlock the door according to the person, meaning homeowners will no longer have to fumble through their pockets searching for their keys. The August app also has the ability to send a virtual key to anyone you wish, giving a specified time for the door to be unlocked. Once the time frame has expired, guests no longer have the key nor access to your property. Thanks to encrypted security, the virtual key can never be copied. What's even better is the August Smart Lock doesn't depend on your power, meaning if there's a blackout or WiFi outage you'll still be able to access the lock.
The August app boasts other features, such as the guestbook function which allows owners to share photos, stories, and comments with their guests to make them feel more at home. Users can also send out invitations to friends to access their homes when hosting a party. Thanks to products like this one, homes can now be more secure than ever, but what about bikes? They are currently a popular form of transportation, but riders have to think of different ways of preventing theft whether it's carrying around their tires or removing the bike seat themselves. Oftentimes, it's not enough to deter thieves.
Berlin startup LOCK8 has created the first smart security system for bikes featuring keyless locking, GPS tracking, and an alarm system. Similar to the August Smart Lock, it uses bluetooth connection to sync up with your smartphone via the LOCK8 app. The app allows users to lock and unlock LOCK8, set up an alarm to deter theft, and even share a virtual key with friends. There's even a rent feature that allows you to rent out your bike to verified LOCK8 users or Facebook friends. The lock charges through induction while cycling giving you power on the go. Both of these products are innovative and stylish new ways to fight against theft, but only time will tell if hackers will grow wise and find ways to get past these new security measures.
The August Smart Lock is available for $249.99. Pre-orders begin at 49.99. The LOCK8 costs roughly $279.00.
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