Baltimore Sun Sunday

Forget using keys with smart lock

- By Gregg Ellman

If you’re prone to forgetting your keys or neglecting to lock the door, relax. There’s an app — and a smart lock — for that.

The easy-to-install Smart Lock Pro from August Home lets you control your existing dead bolt from anywhere, and there’s no need for a new or different key.

August Home says the lock will go over a singlecyli­nder dead bolt. I tried it over existing dead bolts in my house and a friend’s home in a different neighborho­od, so I’m confident it will fit almost every home-installed dead bolt.

Also included is the August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, which plugs into any standard wall power outlet. The bridge connects the lock to your Wi-Fi so it can be controlled remotely with the August app (iOS and Android).

The system works with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HomeKit and Z-Wave Plus. Once everything connects, you can monitor the front door from anywhere with a smartphone.

The app allows users to unlock and open the door for oneself or grant access to others (cleaning service, plumbers, guests, etc.) to enter. You’ll get alerts when the door opens or closes with a 24/7 activity feed.

With Geofencing, you can set your door to autounlock as you approach. Geofencing is technology that creates a virtual geographic boundary, in this case surroundin­g your house.

Another useful feature is DoorSense, the first intelligen­t, integrated sensor, which tells you if your door is open or closed.

 ?? AUGUST HOME ?? The Smart Lock Pro from August Home lets you control your existing dead bolt from anywhere, and there’s no need for a new or different key.
AUGUST HOME The Smart Lock Pro from August Home lets you control your existing dead bolt from anywhere, and there’s no need for a new or different key.

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