Tag Archives: locks

Smart door lock offers key-free security without replacing your deadbolt

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You’ve probably seen sci-fi flicks that show how convenient it would be to just approach a house and have the door automatically open for you. While that might sound like the ultimate convenience, our current reality is far from reaching that idyllic future scenario. Never mind security concerns against hackers or, worse, software bugs, the requirements for installing smart door locks alone are enough to frighten off all but the most tech-savvy and capable of homeowners. Having to replace existing knobs and locks is a daunting and expensive task, which is why this “retrofit” smart door lock is so noteworthy as it allows almost anyone, especially those without much DIY experience, to install the lock in just minutes and still keep the same deadbolt they’ve been using for years.

Designer: Yale

On the one hand, it’s understandable why installing a smart door lock would require removing the old, not-so-smart one. Not only does it require electronic parts, it would also be advisable that all the parts actually work well together. On the other hand, it might not always be economical or practical to replace existing deadbolts, especially if you have quite an expensive design or are renting out rooms or houses. Retrofit locks try to bridge these two extremes and Yale just launched its first attempt at making life easier and less stressful for such people.

The new Yale Approach with Wi-Fi is a deceptively simple kit that promises you’ll only need around 10 minutes and a single screwdriver to install it over your existing deadbolt, depending on how familiar you are with some handiwork. It’s an indoor-only design so you only need to change that part of the lock and that’s all there is to it. Of course, you still need to plug in the wireless Yale Wi-Fi bridge somewhere near the Yale Approach and connect it to your network, but that’s pretty much on par with any other smart lock.

Once that straightforward installation is done, you can enjoy the key-free and sometimes hands-free experience of having a futuristic lock for your home. You can have it lock the door automatically once you’re out or even unlock it when you’re near, all without having to even pull out your phone. You can also give other people access, permanently or temporarily, to the lock, which is important for renters. Best of all, you can still use your old keys as a backup in case things go awry.

The Yale Approach with Wi-Fi arrives along with a new Yale Keypad that adds an extra layer of security to your new smart home system. This wireless backlit keypad can simply be stuck to a wall near the lock, allowing authorized users to simply enter a code to unlock the door. A future model will even come with a fingerprint sensor so you can stop worrying about memorizing all those numbers (or using an insecure sequence like “1234”). Depending on the situation, this new Yale combo might still be inadequate as far as smart security systems are concerned, but it’s still better than the alternative of going through all the work and costs of installing a new lock that you might end up not liking anyway.

The post Smart door lock offers key-free security without replacing your deadbolt first appeared on Yanko Design.

This stylish lock is the smartest and easiest way to keep your bike safe

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Although they never really went out of fashion, non-electric bicycles have recently seen a surge in popularity. Perhaps it’s because of a renewed interest in fitness and health or as a counter-movement to the increasing popularity of e-scooters. Either way, it’s definitely encouraging to see more people of all ages discovering the joys and benefits of biking these days, whether it’s for commuting to work or just having fun. Unfortunately, that popularity might also bring about an increase in bike thefts, which translates to a growing need for bike locks. These are a dime a dozen, of course, but since we live in modern times, it’s only appropriate that the humble bike lock gets an upgrade, like this simple yet innovative keyless lock that makes securing your bike as simple as locking your car.

Designer: Marcus Kjellsson

Click Here to Buy Now: $93 $155 (40% off). Hurry, only 3/275 left!

Bike locks come in all shapes and levels of complexity. Some are simple chains that you access with a traditional key. Others do try to be smarter and utilize a motor for hands-free operation. Both, however, come with their own disadvantages. Keys are easily lost, and motors easily break or lose battery quickly, leaving you unable to even use your bike. The LAAS Keyless O-Lock, in contrast, is so smart and so integrated into your bike you might even forget it wasn’t an original part of the bike in the first place.

Lock Manually – To avoid the use of a motor.

Unlock Through the App – Open the lock via your phone whenever you need.

On the outside, LAAS O-Lock is a simple ring that attaches to the bike’s frame and around the rear tire, making it blend seamlessly into your bike’s appearance. There are no motors inside, which means fewer parts that could potentially break or stop working, so you will have to manually lock the O-Lock. Unlocking it, however, is as simple as whipping out your phone and tapping a button in the app. It only takes three seconds to unlock the ring, and you can even do that while you’re still walking toward your bike.

Share LAAS Keys to Friends – Recipients don’t even need an account.

In addition to the ease of use, LAAS O-Lock also brings a convenience that you’d find in smart home locks these days. Since it can unlock using a smartphone app, you can easily share access to that lock with family and friends. Of course, it uses encryption technologies to ensure that only authorized people can unlock it. With no keys, however, you don’t have to worry about someone else losing or getting access to that key either.

Made from hardened stainless steel, the O-Lock is not only durable but also rust-free. It also looks handsome as well, easily blending with your bike’s design. The lock is trivial to install, and there are add-ons to make it fit any bike, as well as a chain that lets you secure your bike to a post.

For only $93, the LAAS Keyless O-Lock offers not only the smartest and most convenient way to unlock your bike but also some peace of mind knowing that your trusted two-wheeled metal steed is safe and secure all the time.

Click Here to Buy Now: $93 $155 (40% off). Hurry, only 3/275 left!

The post This stylish lock is the smartest and easiest way to keep your bike safe first appeared on Yanko Design.

Here are 3 essential products to buy if you want to turn your regular home into an automated smart home

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These products go way beyond your average smart speaker and smart bulb… and they’re much easier to install than a smart thermostat. I’m talking about being able to remotely control your lights and fans, kitchen appliances, curtains, and even your door lock using the power of IoT… all without needing to replan your house or even call a handyman.

SwitchBot’s devices don’t require redoing your house. They integrate right into the way things are and help automate your house in a way that brings it into the year 2022. We’re looking at three of their most unique smart home products that just fit into your house the way it is. The SwitchBot Bot, Curtain, and Lock together help turn your home into an interconnected automated space that responds to voice commands or even routines. Together, they make the perfect three gadgets to integrate into your house without breaking the bank. The best part? If you’re in a rented house, you can detach the gadgets and take them with you when you’re moving out!

Exclusive 35% discount for YD readers, use Coupon Code “YANKODESIGN”.

Click here to Buy SwitchBot Bot Now: $18.85 $29.

Click here to Buy SwitchBot Curtain Rod 2 Now: $64.35 $99.

Click here to Buy SwitchBot Lock Starter Combo Now:$79.95 $123.00.

SwitchBot Bot

SwitchBot first made waves with its premier product, the SwitchBot Bot. Designed to be a Bluetooth-connected device that simply sits on top of any switch in your house, the Bot lets you remotely toggle the switch on or off, allowing you to power lights, fans, heaters or ACs, and even kitchen appliances. The Bot simply presses against a switch, turning it on or off, and can be controlled via SwitchBot’s app, or even integrated with your voice assistant, allowing you to set up routines where lights and fans immediately switch on when you enter a room, and switch off when you leave! The Bot simply glues itself on your existing switchboard, and can be easily relocated whenever you want.

SwitchBot Curtain

The SwitchBot Curtain does exactly what you think it does! The award-winning gadget attaches to your curtain rod, and can automatically move up and down, opening or closing your curtains. It’s designed to be compatible with nearly all sorts of curtain rods (it doesn’t work with blinds, though) and can be controlled via the app or even automated to open or close based on your morning routine as a part of your alarm, or better still, based on how strong the sunlight is, so you don’t have to crank up the AC because your room’s getting hot! You can even automate your bot to shut the curtains as you’re leaving the house, or have them automatically close while you’re watching TV to prevent glare. The SwitchBot Curtain also comes with an optional solar panel accessory that sits facing the outside, so you never have to worry about the bot running out of charge!

SwitchBot Lock

However, the latest product in SwitchBot’s catalog is their Lock – a retrofitting device that fits onto any standard single deadbolt lock, allowing you to open it using an app, Bluetooth, proximity, or even voice commands. The SwitchBot Lock simply fits onto your existing deadbolt lock inside your house, and will open or close it using a built-in motor. You can work the lock manually too if you want, or use the SwitchBot app to open or close your door when you’re within Bluetooth range. Besides, there’s even compatibility with the Apple Watch, allowing you to open your door using your smartwatch instead of having to fish around for a set of keys. The SwitchBot Lock can fit onto most standard deadbolt locks, and the company is also working on 3D printed accessories that allow it to work with other designs too. Built to last, the gadget can easily withstand 50,000 locks and unlocks (that’s roughly 14 years if you lock/unlock your door a total of 10 times each day), and runs on two replaceable 3V CR123A batteries that last 6 months based on the same 10-times-a-day metric.

Together, the Bot, Curtain, and Lock are the perfect trio of smart devices designed to upgrade your regular home into a smart one. What’s even more remarkable is the ability to set routines and shortcuts within your voice assistant of choice, turning off lights and opening curtains when there’s ample natural light, or switching on the hallway light and opening the door when you’re back from work. You can set such routines using Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT, Siri Shortcuts, SmartThings, LINE Clova, etc., giving you a wide range of IoT ecosystems to choose from. All of SwitchBot’s products come with a 1-year warranty, and the company is even offering a special 35% Prime Day discount to YD readers. Don’t forget to use the coupon code YANKODESIGN during checkout!

Click here to Buy SwitchBot Bot Now: $18.85 $29.

Click here to Buy SwitchBot Curtain Rod 2 Now: $64.35 $99.

Click here to Buy SwitchBot Lock Starter Combo Now:$79.95 $123.00.

The post Here are 3 essential products to buy if you want to turn your regular home into an automated smart home first appeared on Yanko Design.

Deal: Save 21% on the Bitlock Smart Bike Lock

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Have you ever lost your bike key? It’s a huge pain in the rear, from the time you waste digging through your drawers to the cost of potentially having to call a locksmith. You’ll never worry about bike keys again with the Bitlock Smart Bike Lock.

bitlock_bike_lock_1

This high-tech U-shaped bike lock not only lets you lock and unlock your bike using your smartphone, but lets you share your bike with others, providing them each with their own revocable digital key. Your Bitlock will automatically open when you approach your bike and press the button, and if for some reason you don’t have your phone with you, there’s a secret backup combination you can use to unlock your bike in a pinch. When you step away, Bitlock access is automatically disabled.

The Bitlock Bike Lock normally sells for $139, but you can get one for a limited time in the Technabob Shop for just $109.

The best smart lock

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By Jon Chase This post was done in partnership with The Wirecutter, a buyer's guide to the best technology. Read the full article here. After spending more than three months researching and testing eight leading models in both side-by-side tests a...