14 DAY TRIAL // Locks are a natural part of life in most countries, being the first line of defense between man and burglaries. Or the second line of defense, if the door counts as the first. That is why Lockitron decided to create the eponymous deadbolt.
Deadbolts are one of the oldest kinds of locks, having been used as far back as the metal ages. Throughout the thousands of years since then, they have changed surprisingly little.
They may have become smaller in size (or larger as warranted), but ultimately they function on the same principle. Lockitron is just the latest revision of the concept.
The Lockitron smartphone-controlled deadbolt accessory
This is the second incarnation of this device. There was another one, a while ago, which turned into a flop after the crowdfunding campaign failed.
One problem with it was the price. Few people are willing to pay $180 / €154 for a fancy lock, however wirelessly controlled.
Another reason was the installation. While the deadbolt did live up to its claim that it is compatible with every lock out there, or most of them (and there are many, many of them), installing it took ages.
The official time was of 20 minutes, but most people found that it took around an hour more often than not. Also, Wi-Fi had too high latency, and Bluetooth didn't work without Bluetooth Low Energy enabled.
Add to that Lockitron's decision to not collect the initial pledges (around $2.2 / €1.9 million) until they were in a position to ship the devices and you have the broad strokes of why the product failed to deliver, literally.
The new Lockitron is a lot sleeker though, as well as cheaper at $99 / €87 thanks to using high-quality parts off-the-shelf instead of exclusively custom components. Moreover, it doesn't install over a deadbolt (no more “slot-in” claims), but replaces it altogether.
Now, the installation takes only 20 small steps, after which you can use your smartphone to lock or unlock it via Bluetooth LE.
Moreover, if you pair it with Lockitron's Wi-Fi adapter (an extra $49 / €43), you can send commands from work or anywhere else on the planet, provided you have Internet access.
That means you can use an SMS or e-mail to give access to specific locks, even give permissions to select individuals to enter the home during specific times of the day (like babysitters or maids).
Availability
Lockitron should ship the Preview edition in March (a few thousand units, as a Beta program). The production variant of Lockitron Bolt will follow in late spring. If you were a backer of the original crowdfunded Lockitron, you'll receive priority.