Level Home, a company that focuses on smart home innovations, has revealed its latest product. The Level Lock Bolt Edition is an “invisible” device that can turn any standard deadbolt into a smart lock. The company says the transformation takes less than 10 minutes using a screwdriver, and that the lock is meant to exceed the highest residential security ratings (ANSI GRADE 1/A).
“With every product we create, we start at square zero so we can strike the perfect balance between today’s cutting-edge technology and the practicality of our everyday living experience,” said John Martin, Level Home’s co-founder and CEO.
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“Many smart home products on the market today are under-delivering — they’re over-engineered, complicated, and require people to change how they do everyday tasks. We believe ‘smart’ is invisible and must blend in with people’s homes and existing routines.”
What makes this lock invisible? It fits inside your current deadbolt. You can still use the same door keys. The only difference is that your lock becomes a smart lock. Users are able to talk to visitors through their door, use voice commands to control the door lock, and monitor door activity using Apple HomeKit and the Level App. Through the app, you can also give family members and friends virtual keys that they can use to unlock your door when you’re not home. The lock uses Bluetooth to make your visitor’s phone a key.
The Level Lock is also made to last. It was created with a patent-pending, six-stage, stainless steel gearbox. Its battery also has up to a year’s worth of battery life.
During the announcement, Level Home also talked about securing $71 million in funding through investments from Walmart and Lennar Homes. “Our mission is to help consumers remove inconveniences, so there’s more time for what matters — like family and friends,” said Walmart representatives. “Level Home is transforming smart technology. By making it more convenient, secure, and easier than ever to welcome people into the home, they are opening up an entirely new generation of possibilities.”
Level Lock can be reserved starting Tuesday, October 15, via the company website. The product will ship to the general public starting in January 2020, according to the company.
Philips launches its first smart lock with Wi-Fi that can be controlled from anywhere
Philips has officially launched its first smart deadbolt with built-in Wi-Fi (aptly named the Philips Smart Deadbolt with Built-In Wi-Fi), giving users the ability to control their front door regardless of location. There's no need for a secondary bridge or other devices, as the lock itself connects directly to the Philips Home Access App via Wi-Fi, making setup a quick and easy process.
Further streamlining the setup process is the retrofit design of the smart lock. It should easily fit over most existing hardware, so you won't have to change out any deadbolts or worry about passing out new keys. That means the outside portion of your front door will largely look unchanged, though you'll still benefit from "smarts" such as voice command integration, auto-unlock function, door position sensing, and remote access via the mobile app.
Should you buy a new smart lock or retrofit your existing deadbolt?
When it comes to smart locks, all models essentially fall into two categories. The first category will be familiar to most people, as these are traditional smart locks built to replace your existing deadbolt. That means you'll get a whole new set of keys for your front door, as well as hardware that introduces smart features to your home.
The second kind of smart lock is a retrofit smart lock. These quirky devices are designed to fit over your existing hardware -- allowing you to keep using your old keys while also adding smart features. Both types of smart locks are great ways to upgrade your front door, but which is best for your home? Here's a closer look to help you decide if you should replace your traditional deadbolt with a smart lock or install a retrofit smart lock instead.
Consider your DIY skills
Yale Assure Lock 2 vs. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock: which is the better smart lock?
Smart locks are a powerful way to enhance your front door security, and few products are as popular as the Yale Assure Lock 2 and August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. Both are quite expensive (carrying price tags that can climb over $200), but your investment gets you slick designs, tons of functionality, and an easy way to let guests access your home without giving away a physical key.
But which is best -- the Yale Assure Lock 2 or the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock? From pricing and installation to mobile companion apps and more, here's a look at these two popular smart locks.
Pricing and design