Jan 12, 2021
Smart locks: Convenience comes with security doubts
Wi-fi lets you monitor and control the lock when you're away from home, and see the face of your Amazon delivery person who wants to get in. Connecting with wi-fi also allows your lock to talk to Alexa or Siri, and turn on your lights and adjust the thermostat when you get home. Another challenge for manufacturers has been extending battery life, currently about six months for locks using wi-fi. "Wi-fi is very challenging. It's kind of the holy grail of Internet of Things devices," says Rob Martens, chief design officer at Allegion, which makes Schlage locks. If we used to think of locks as a way of keeping everyone out, wi-fi locks are instead becoming devices to lock the right people out while letting your cleaner, mum or delivery person in.
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