Kwikset introduced its latest Kevo upgrade giving users the ability to send free and unlimited Guest electronic keys (eKeys) to recipients, with a scheduled eKey and set day and time constraints for regular house guests like babysitters, dog-walkers and contractors. Kevo owners can update their Kevo mobile app and lock firmware to enable these new types of eKeys.
Kwikset Unikey
“We’re always looking for ways to improve the Kevo experience, and we hope this upgrade shows our customers that we’re listening,” said Keith Brandon, director, residential access solutions. “Since Kevo’s been on the market, our customers have asked for free eKeys that let them give access anytime to friends or neighbors without paying for a new key. Now our unlimited Guest eKeys let them do that. We’re also introducing Scheduled eKeys to give homeowners the convenience of setting date and time constraints.”
With Guest eKeys, users can give recipients unrestricted access for a 24-hour period. Owners also have the option to delete Guest eKeys manually before the 24-hour access expires. Guest eKeys come in handy for letting in a weekend guest who beats you home from a busy day at work or giving a neighbor access to the house while your kids are at home.
The new Scheduled eKey allows users to set day and time constraints directly from their phones. It is ideal for house cleaners, dog walkers, nannies, or others that need regular access at pre-determined times. Kevo owners can schedule these eKeys to be active prior to sending, so they don’t have to remember to grant or revoke access to these users in real time.
“The Kevo technology platform was built with the future in mind by having the ability to add new features and enhancements to the firmware in the lock, in addition to the mobile app. This capability allows the lock to get smarter over time,” said Phil Dumas, UniKey founder and president.
Since it’s introduction as the first-to-market, Bluetooth enabled smart lock in October 2013, Kevo has turned the smartphone into a key and revolutionized the way users share and manage access to their homes. The Bluetooth-enabled deadbolt offers the only touch-to-open technology that lets users unlock the door with a simple touch while their authorized smartphone remains in their purse or pocket.
Kevo comes with two eKeys that can be reassigned as Scheduled or Anytime eKeys as well as free, unlimited Guest eKeys. To grant long-term access to additional guests, Kevo owners can purchase additional Anytime or Scheduled eKeys in the app for $1.99.