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60 seconds with a simple but smart home monitoring device
There are already plenty of ways to keep an eye on your abode from afar, so any new home monitoring product better have a fresh approach if it wants to stand out from the competition. For start-up Form Devices, the goal wasn't to create an elaborate, connected home security system that did more than existing products, but to make something simple, affordable and user-friendly. And, it must've done something right with its Point home monitoring device, which cruised past its $50,000 Kickstarter goal just two days after the campaign went live, and is now participating in our Insert Coin competition at Engadget Expand. The plain white, palm-sized puck hosts sound, humidity, temperature, air quality and particle sensors, but no camera. This was a very intentional omission, not just because Point is supposed to be small and inconspicuous, but so users have peace of mind that nobody will ever be watching them.
Lockitron now offering low cost easy-to-install hardware for iOS lock control
We've previously reported on Apple patents that cover unlocking doors using iOS, and we've mentioned the Lockitron system -- a device that covers a deadbolt lock and allows remote locks and unlocks from iOS devices. Lock compatibility was somewhat limited. Today, the company announced a lower-cost and more direct feature. Partnering with lockmaker Schlage, the company is now offering a single cylinder replacement deadbolt lock for US$29.00. Coupled with the Lockitron hardware and recently updated iOS software, most doors can be opened remotely from any location in the world -- as long as you have a data connection. The first production units are being shipped next month to people who made early reservations for the original product. Now customers can add the Schlage lock that works with the remote access system. The company maintains a compatibility page if you want to see if your existing locks will work. The system allows you to control multiple door locks with an iPhone 4S or iPhone 5. The software is available at the App Store.
DoorBot lets you see and talk with who's at the door from the comfort of your smartphone (video)
If funding is successful, you'll be able to wave hello to Edison Junior's DoorBot -- an app-enabled, WiFi-connected video doorbell. Sure, it's not exactly the first time we've seen such an idea, but the "weather-resistant," aluminium enclosure makes it one of the best looking concepts we've seen. Better yet, the system is set to work in unison with the Lockitron (a smartphone-controlled keyless door lock that was recently crowd-funded, albeit still yet to ship) allowing you to let welcome visitors inside your abode at the tap of your iOS or Android Device's app screen. The DoorBot installs with four screws, but it'll have you running through four AA batteries once a year for power (which, based on the video, seem easily removable by strangers, unfortunately). There's no word on the quality of the camera onboard, however, its infared-equipped, so you'll be able to see who's there at night. Lastly, the actual doorbell button is wrapped with an LED light, and, as you'd expect, it alerts you via the app when pressed to see and speak with whomever is at the door. In total, Edison Junior hopes to raise a lofty $250,000 to make the DoorBot more than a concept video, with 45 days to reach the goal. If you're willing to take the gamble as backer, $169 is what'll cost to secure a pre-order, and $319 snags you one bundled with the Lockitron. We're told that we'll see a working prototype in the flesh at CES, but until then, you can catch the full sales pitch at the source link and video demo after the break.
Lockitron plans to help you unlock your door with your phone
Keyless entry using your iPhone isn't a new thing, but Lockitron has introduced a system that allows keyless entry for your home with some extras geared toward the iPhone. With the US$149 Lockitron, a box fits over your existing deadbolt and allows you to manage your door locks from anywhere via SMS or the Internet. It will allow you to share access with family and friends, which can keep you from running to the closest hardware store to get multiple keys made. If you have an iPhone 4S or iPhone 5, you also can use Bluetooth 4 to have your door automatically unlock as you approach it. With knock sensors, notifications and more, it's a pretty nifty gadget. You can reserve a Lockitron now, and it's expected to ship in March. To see it in action, check out the video below. [via Cult of Mac]
Lockitron launches iPhone-controlled keyless lock that pings you when someone knocks (video)
Lockitron has just outed a new cellphone-controlled keyless entry system, sporting a raft of new bells and wireless whistles. The WiFi-connected product mounts over your existing deadbolt "in seconds," according to the company, and lets you or those you trust control your lock from anywhere in the world by SMS or the internet. You can also unlock your door in person without lifting a finger if you have an iPhone 4S or 5, as the Lockitron will sense your approach using Bluetooth 4.0 -- a feature that may extend to NFC and Android devices in the future, too. To top it off, the system can notify you when a friend or relative returns home, and it has a knock sensor to let you know if someone's come by to visit. Lockitron exceeded its self-imposed minimum order limit by 250 percent in less than a day, so if you'd like to pre-order one at the current $149 price and get it for March 2013, hit the source.
