The Nest x Yale Lock offers a smarter way to lock doors
Google-owned smart thermostat company Nest has joined forced with lock firm Yale to create a smart lock that replaces keys with passcodes.
The Nest x Yale Lock was revealed at CES 2018, and is a product in part of the ‘Works with Nest’ programme to allow for smart home devices to be controlled through the Nest mobile app.
Using a keyless battery-powered touchscreen, the smart lock can store up to 250 passcodes which can be assigned to different people or tasks. For example, if you have a cleaner who you wish to let into your house but only during specific hours, you can assign a passcode to them that only lets them unlock the door as designated times.
The lock can also be operated remotely through the Nest app, which when used in conjunction with the Nest Hello video doorbell gadget can allow for people to unlock the door from elsewhere once they have confirmed the identity of the person who’s calling by.
Running off four replaceable AA batteries, the smart lock alerts its users when its getting low on power so that it doesn’t end up powering down and effectively locking them out of their home. The lock can also be accessed through a touchscreen pad in the Nest app should the lock’s power or Wi-Fi fail.
To protect from interference, both digital and physical, the two companies say the Nest x Yale Lock has strong encryption and sports tough outer hardware to prevent burglars from bashing into it.
It also comes in three finishes: Polished Brass, Satin Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze to fit the exterior aesthetics of your door or home.
Slated for release in March 2018 and with pre-orders going live in February, there’s no word yet on the price of the smart lock. But it does look like a device for people keen to add a finish touch to the smart home setup they have been building.
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