Smart devices to let UPS into area buildings

UPS plans to begin using Latch smart access devices in Atlanta and nine other cities later this year, expanding the technology that allows drivers to enter apartment buildings to make deliveries.

Sandy Springs-based UPS started using the Latch devices in New York City and San Francisco last year.

The devices can grant UPS drivers access to multiunit buildings but not to individual units. UPS said the technology makes it more convenient for residents to get deliveries when not home — and, crucially, it also lets UPS complete more deliveries on first attempts to cut costs.

“Smart access devices enable our drivers to enter buildings without keys and leave packages safely in lobbies or building package rooms,” said Jerome Roberts, UPS vice president of global product innovation, in a written statement. “For UPS, this innovation adds efficiency.”

The company is expanding use of Latch devices in mid-2019 to Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, Philadelphia, Boston, Miami, Seattle and Washington, D.C.

Buildings that qualify based on factors such as size and location can be registered with Latch, and the devices would need to be installed. Latch technology can also allow residents to enter the building and manage guest access. UPS drivers would use hand-held DIAD devices to unlock doors to enter buildings. Latch records each entry while a camera also records the interaction.

Other companies, such as Amazon, have deployed technology like Amazon Key with Wi-Fi connected locks and in-car deliveries, as the growth in deliveries drives consumers’ desire to seek a balance between convenience versus security and privacy.