The Future Of Home Delivery: Smart Locks

Rising to fame in just a few short years, smart locks are leading the popularity race in home security tech in the United States. In fact, it is estimated that by end of 2019, the smart lock industry will be worth close to $3.6 billion. Smart locks are designed to clamp over your existing deadbolt to allow you to lock and unlock your doors remotely and take home automation to the next level. With the ever-increasing pressure on our schedules, and people spending less time at home, smart lock technology provides a clever and practical solution to home safety that enables people to lock and unlock their homes remotely from their phones.

So, how effective is this tech and should we all be taking the smart lock plunge? Let’s look at the smart lock pros and cons.

The pros of having a smart lock

So why are so many people upgrading their home security systems to include smart locks? Let’s look at the pros of using smart locks:

1. Remote accessibility

By far, its biggest pro is the remote accessibility that allows users to unlock and lock their doors from their mobile devices. Why is this so handy? Because you’re able to give people access to your home, remotely, in situations where you are not able to get home to let someone in. This proves to be exceptionally handy in situations such as when you’re on vacation or when you are stuck in a meeting and need to let in a service provider or contractor – all from the comfort of your mobile device.

2. Multiple entry codes

With smart locks you can assign various access codes to a variety of service providers, such as nannies or garden services. This means that you no longer need to keep or hand out spare keys that could get lost, which can be a big security threat. Instead, you are able to assign codes and then delete them should you change service providers. Also, spare codes are no longer needed.

3. Enhancing security camera functionality

By including smart locks into your home security system – which incorporates live camera feeds, you are able to see who is at the door, and if deemed safe, provide access without having to rush home to do it. This can be super beneficial when you’re away or busy and are expecting a delivery but don’t know exactly when it will be coming.

The cons of having a smart lock

No product is without its possible drawbacks so let’s look at the possible cons of smart locks and what you can do to mitigate them:

1. Costs

In order to use smart locks, you will need to ensure you have the correct type of lock. Each brand works with specific locks such as existing single-cylinder deadbolt like the below example.

This means that if you don’t have the right door lock to install the smart lock you will need to financially invest in replacing your locks. But, for those of us who want to save a lot hassle long-term and the expense of driving back and forth, it’s a worthwhile investment.

2. Internet security

Like all online tech, there is the threat of a potential hack by professional hackers. The best way to eliminate this threat is to invest in a top quality smart lock company which regulates third-party access. Another way to ensure your lock is even more protected, is by keeping locks updated and replace locks when products are upgraded.

3. Tech fails

Like all tech, there are sometimes system failures that could crop up. For example Gizmodo reported that sometimes your lock may not secure the deadbolt as expected. This can be prevented by ensuring you, your family and others with door access always firmly close the door.

Smart locks, moving home delivery into the future

By far the biggest benefit of the rise of smart locks is how it is changing the landscape of home delivery.  At the end of October 2017, Amazon announced the start of a brand-new service: Amazon Key. Amazon Key is a smart lock system, which coupled with Amazon’s Cloud Cam, allows Amazon Prime shoppers to let couriers into their homes when a delivery arrives when they’re not home. Think of it as an upgrade to Amazon Prime’s locker system which works with Kwikset and Yale smart locks.

There you have it, smart locks and Amazon taking home delivery into the future. Most of your leading home security systems already offer smart lock integration, making it easier for you to activate your smart locks.

Top home security systems for smart lock users

Vivint

Along with smart locks and home automation, Vivint offers free professional installation, financing and advanced motion and fire protection. Read our expert review.

Frontpoint

Along with smart locks and home automation, Frontpoint offers easy DIY installation, 100% cellular Monitoring and a 30-day risk-free trial. Read our expert review.

The above shall not be considered as an expert or professional advice for any matter.