Along that ridge is a cleverly placed August logo to help you tell whether your door is locked or not. You can even disable your August app and all virtual keys at any time via a special desktop site if your phone is lost or stolen. Here's what you need to know. Make sure the deadbolt moves freely and there isn't any friction in the lock's mechanics. Think of it as old school meets new school. August says the lock will … Wi-Fi isn't easy on batteries, and this is the first August model with the CR123 battery. If you own an Apple Watch ($399 at Apple), you can avoid this problem altogether by installing the August app, which will work via geofencing just like your phone. Anyway, you can't go wrong when trying to protect your home. The Best Smart Locks of 2020, Reviewed, April 16, 2020. Slimmed down and further smartened, it's the best one yet. These smart locks provide both convenience and security for you and your guests at your Airbnb rental. 1 factor in battery life is the quality of your Wi-Fi connection. If you're switching over from a keypad or some other keyless exterior system, you'll need to retrain your brain. It’s been a few years since August introduced any new hardware, but its August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, which it debuted at CES this year, is now available. As the name suggests, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock has Wi-Fi connectivity built right in. It's important to do your best to keep the cam bar (see below) centered in the August back plate while you secure the screws. Make sure you have a good Wi-Fi connection. If you don't like the idea of keeping up with the batteries on a smart lock, obviously this isn't the product category for you. The August team assured me that customers will not see this once the smart lock is available for purchase. August's smart locks have been some of our favorites since we reviewed the company’s first offering back in 2014. Smart locks have trouble calibrating and fully locking doors that need an extra shove to close completely. As for compatibility, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock works with Alexa, Google and Siri for voice commands as well as routines and automation with your platform of choice. Which screw length goes where can really matter on a smart lock. Based in San Francisco, California, the company was purchased by Swedish lock manufacturer Assa Abloy in 2017. Beyond this, the device provides the same features as the more expensive Pro model. August Smart Lock Pro (3rd Gen) squirrel_widget_3383077 August's latest Smart Lock Pro is perhaps the most modern-looking device on this list, coming with a feature set to match. We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. The Smart Lock pairs with a smart phone using August’s free app in the same way as the Pro and is easy to configure. I've always been fond of August's geofencing auto-lock and -unlock capabilities, and that remains true for this model. Like with that model, you'll need to purchase a separate Wi-Fi Bridge to access your lock from anywhere in the world. You'll also want to download the August app available on iOS or Android, as there is a helpful guide with animations to walk you through the process. In contrast to existing August smart locks, this product has an onboard Wi-Fi radio, obviating the need for the separate Connect Wi-Fi Bridge. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Our most recent review of the August Smart Lock Pro garnered an Editors’ Choice for its multi-platform support, easy installation, and sleek aesthetics. All smart locks come with bluetooth keyless entry. For control outside of that range, indeed for control from anywhere in the world, you need Wi-Fi. My husband and I are known to run or walk the dog without our keys and phones, so a keypad is a great way to get in and out of the house without pockets full of hardware and let family and neighbors in with their own codes when needed. It's so much less distracting, partly because I'm a bit more accustomed to seeing smart locks on doors by now, but also because it's really significantly smaller. Learn more. I was using a beta version of the August app and after talking with the team, they found a bug in the battery prediction algorithm that led to a premature low-battery notification. C H O I C E May 2020. Available in matte black and silver, the lock also sports a … The August team, alongside our ASSA ABLOY sister company Yale, have been at the conference all week, sharing updates and sneak peeks of what’s to come in 2020. At a Glance: Our Top 4 Picks for Best Airbnb Smart Lock. According to August, the no. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (right) is 45% smaller than the August Smart Lock Pro (left). It was designed by Yves Béhar and will be available later this year. Voice unlocking via the various virtual assistants requires a spoken PIN. About your . Smart locks provide a valuable service for homeowners and renters alike — especially if you want to start building out an entire home automation system. Thanks for reading. We gave multiple generations of August locks our Editors' Choice Award for their easy installation, great app and smart home integration. August makes the highest-rated smart locks around, and for a good reason. Schlage and Kwikset also have Wi-Fi models (both also priced at $249), and it's likely the way of the future for most smart locks. We’ve reviewed the best available Airbnb smart lock options in 2020, and provided our findings for you to make an informed decision! Join. © 2021 CNET, A RED VENTURES COMPANY. Many smart locks connect via Bluetooth to your phone, which lets you control the lock when you're in close proximity to it. I popped it onto the back of my door and lived with it for a week. On the inside, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is powered by two CR123 batteries. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is August's 4th-generation smart lock, adding in one significant advantage without throwing away what makes August's locks so good. Answer your door from anywhere with August View. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock turns much more smoothly than previous August models, takes up less space and is just as smart and secure. Before I tested this lock at my house, I had a smart keypad ($55 at Amazon) on my front door. Penn State (go Nittany Lions) graduate here, also a huge fan of the New England Patriots. For those reasons, we've decided to award it our Editors' Choice for Best Smart Lock, dethroning the August Smart Lock Pro ($125 at Amazon). I'll take a second here to address my standard smart lock tips. The new August Wi-Fi Smart Lock ($249.99) is the company’s smallest model to date, and its first to offer embedded Wi-Fi. This affects not only the installation, but the lock's everyday performance, too. That's a shorter suggested lifespan than the six months to a year promised for the older, AA models. August Smartlock Pro 2020 release date. It's a  nice, digital detox. Archived. The August Smart Lock Pro allows you to lock and unlock your door from anywhere in the world when paired with the August Wi-Fi Bridge. Here’s a look at what we announced at CES this year. The new August Wi-Fi Smart Lock ($249.99) is the company’s smallest model to date, and its first to offer embedded Wi-Fi. October 7, 2020. Review: August’s Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the go-to choice for HomeKit users. That's … August’s new Wi-Fi Smart Lock is smaller and sleeker than before, and it no longer needs a hub for connectivity. After that, it's all about fine-tuning lock and app performance to get the most battery life possible out while still hanging onto that Wi-Fi signal well. The August Smart Lock is similar to the Pro version except that the former doesn't offer Z-Wave Plus support, nor does it work with Apple HomeKit, or any of the before mentioned voice assistants. Wire-free, the doorbell camera using a sensor to stream video of your doorstep to your phone. It's smart enough to work with smart home setups for Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit and Amazon Alexa. Packaged with or without one of the August locks, the Connect Wi-Bridge Bridge adds remote capabilities, allowing you to lock and unlock your August Smart Lock from anywhere. Discussion threads can be closed at any time at our discretion. I'll talk more about those later. That addition of Wi-Fi makes August feel fresh and updated. A smart home should blend in, in my opinion, and August's design is much improved in that regard. The good news is, as with previous generation August Smart Locks, even if the batteries are dead you can still use a physical key to unlock your door. If you're looking for smart locks that work with Alexa, you've come to the right place. While it is the first August lock to include Wi-Fi, it isn't the only lock on the market with the upgrade. Of course, it has all the features you expect, fully control from your smartphone, and easily give access to your friends and family as needed. With the free August app, you can also assign secure access. The Connect bridge is also required to let friends, family, and home service in from afar. The model we tested came with a … When we got back after half an hour, I realized I had no way to open the door because my phone and keys were inside. It's not cheap at $249, but keep in mind that you won't have to spend any extra money on a Connect module to get Wi-Fi remote access benefits. Close. As always, installing an August smart lock is a breeze if you have 10 minutes and a screwdriver. If you're looking for a Wi-Fi smart lock that works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Homekit, August's newest model puts smarts at your door without replacing your deadbolt. It’s the only smart lock that has the ability to sense if the door has been left open. Auto-lock can also be customized for time, so you can set the door to lock anywhere from immediately after it's unlocked all the way up to 30 minutes later. Luckily, we'd left a side door unlocked, but I had a fun 60 seconds of panic. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock turns much more smoothly than previous August models, takes up less space and is just as smart and secure. Meanwhile, August's sister company, Yale, has announced a new smart delivery and storage product line at CES 2020. August says the Wi-Fi Smart Lock is 45 percent smaller and 20 percent slimmer than its Smart Lock Pro. August's smart locks have been some of our favorites since we reviewed the company’s first offering back in 2014. The team at August estimates the lock's batteries should last three to six months. It uses two-factor authentication to log into your account or create a new one. Requires August Connect ($199 for bundle), Read more: How to use your smart lock safely | What to know before buying a smart lock. I'm a single dad who loves technology, especially anything new from Apple. Buy them together to save money, then use the savings on one of the Smart Keypads. If you liked previous August smart locks, you'll love this one. Since then, it has continued to add new products to its lineup and the best August Smart Locks are even some of the best HomeKit Door Locks. The August system is the simplest smart lock installation out there, and the guidance in both the app and printed, in-box instructions are easy to follow. Don't miss out: Join Visible wireless for as low as $25/mo. If you find that it's too far up or down, loosen and readjust the screws while holding a bit of pressure on the plate to keep it in place. guide. These items will help you secure your home by simply using your voice. August Smart Locks and Accessories The design team, which includes renowned designer Yves Béhar, stayed true to the original design, while making small updates. ... An unofficial forum for August Smart Lock owners and the curious. That means you no longer need to buy the $80 August Connect module to control the remotely. The Yale Smart Delivery Box ($229), Yale Smart Cabinet Lock ($79), and Yale Smart Safe ($229) have been designed to protect items both inside and outside the home. Here's the accessory that makes it possible to open your August Smart Lock without a traditional key or phone. Be respectful, keep it civil and stay on topic. If you liked previous August smart … Keep your existing lock and keys It easily attaches to your existing deadbolt, so everyone can still use their keys. It comes with built-in Wi-Fi, negating the need for the extra August Connect ($62 at Amazon) plug-in modules. The August Smart Lock doesn’t share the same design as other smart locks such as the generic Kwikset 909 Smartcode Electronic Deadbolt or ... August 5, 2020… August's newest smart lock ditches the need for an external bridge. This is the first August lock with Wi-Fi built in. Wi-Fi is built into this smart door lock model, so … A smart lock can typically be opened remotely, and the codes can be changed remotely as well. iMore Nearly all smart locks require this aesthetic obstruction, relying on a large battery and thumb latch housings mounted on the interior side of your door. CR's take: The retrofit August Smart Lock Pro offers a ton of smart features, including auto-locking and unlocking, voice control (via Amazon Alexa, ... Best Smart Home Devices of 2020. Note: I did encounter a low battery warning just three days into testing the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. August's unique retrofit design stays true to its roots in this fourth-generation model. The newest model from August is unique because it connects directly to your Wi-Fi, meaning you don't need the Connect Bridge to control it. Best August Smart Locks and Accessories iMore 2021. August smart locks are popular, and for good reason. You’ll Love Coming Home to Keyless Entry with August Smart Lock $50 off with code LOCKLOVE $50 off with code LOCKLOVE Buy Now Learn More Choose your smart lock features and style. 22. You'll notice a slightly different ridge pattern around the sides of the lock, designed to improve grip. The green adapter provided fit my Kwikset deadbolt. Next, you'll fit on the August plate and correct adapter for your lock, and clip on the Wi-Fi Smart Lock with its two locking wings. Be sure your door closes well before you begin this process. The retrofit design makes them easy to install without replacing your existing deadbolt. @bryanmwolfe, Join Visible wireless for as low as $25/mo, Smart Lock Pro (3rd gen) with Connect Hub, start building out an entire home automation system, If you've run an Airbnb, you might need one of these smart locks, Secure your home, and add a little Alexa magic with these smart locks, Lighting is crucial to photos — get the best shot with these portable LEDs. Jon Chase. The updated side texture of the lock is designed to provide better grip. The lock works with Apple Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. August, Inc. is a big player in the smart home market thanks to its lineup of smart locks and accessories. The Best Smart Lock Deals This Week* August Smart Lock Pro With Connect Hub (3rd Generation) — $129.99 (List Price $229.99) Schlage Encode Wi … At CES 2020, August Home has announced a new home security product, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. No surprise there. Secure Your Home in 2020 With New August, Yale Smart Locks. Let's start with the obvious. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock comes with a DoorSense sensor, so you can know if someone leaves the door open or closes it but leaves it unlocked. Battery life will also be affected by how often you lock and unlock your door, especially over Wi-Fi or data connections. It requires that you keep Wi-Fi enabled on your mobile device, and it worked well in my testing. At $250, the new lock is pricey but it's in the same price range as the previous generation lock, and well worth your money if you're looking to get your front door online. August, Inc. is a big player in the smart home market thanks to its lineup of smart locks and accessories. Yale Assure Connected by August is Our Best Smart Lock of 2020 Between the newest smart locks available, the best smart lock of 2020 is the Yale Assure Connect by August (CBA) smart lock. An add-on August keypad ($60)  is also an option. Hello, August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. First, August (which was purchased by Yale's parent company Assa Abloy in 2017) has updated its Wi-Fi Smart Lock with a smaller, sleeker design—45 pecent smaller in volume and 20 percent slimmer than the August Smart Lock Pro.The lock face now has softer transitions and rounded edges, as well as new textured ridges around the outside, which make it more tactile to turn. If you're interested in a smart lock, but want to keep your exterior hardware traditional, this is the lock for you. What's remarkably different is the size. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock includes a retrofit August lock and a DoorSense open-close sensor. The reduction in size is great, too. You need a Connect bridge for every lock in your home if you want remote access. Make managing things easier by assigning codes and app access with the best smart locks around. Posted by 10 months ago. Keep your screws organized. While there's never been anything particularly ugly about the lock, putting a big chunk of metal on the interior of your door isn't an interior designer's dream. Previously, smart lock makers have relied on a plug-in Wi-Fi adapter, like the August Connect, to integrate Wi-Fi, but the smart lock landscape has changed a lot since the first August lock. If the lock needs to constantly reconnect to an access point or wake up due to polling from the access point, you'll see a quicker drain. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is 45% smaller than its predecessors, measuring 2.83 inches in diameter and just 1.81 inches in depth. It also uses Bluetooth encryption, AES 128-bit and TLS encryption for the mobile app. I knew my batteries shouldn't be low so soon. August engineers resolved the bug on the back end, and I didn't have any issues after that. The day after I set up the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, we walked the dog around the neighborhood without our keys or phones. August Smart Lock Pro is compatible with the widest range of standard deadbolts. When your mobile device is 200 meters (656 feet) from your home either leaving or returning, the lock will lock or unlock, if you've chosen to turn on that function. For most users, we recommend the August Smart Lock Pro alongside the Connect Wi-Fi Bridge. Best Discuss: Review: The new August Smart Lock with built-in Wi-Fi is our favorite yet. 10. August Smart Lock Pro – 3rd Generation TOP PICK When added to smart cameras, you can see who's at the door before opening it remotely. Simple, DIY installation August Smart Lock Pro installs inside your door in about 10 minutes with just a screwdriver. Assigning virtual keys to additional lock users remains free, a highlight of August's policies, and you'll also get plenty of options for setting notifications when something happens, or doesn't, at your door. I can't discern a huge difference, but I'm not bothered by it, either. Just take it out f the box, set it up, and you're good to go. A two-pack of CR123s at your local big box store should cost around $8 to $10. Created Nov 19, 2014. Members. With the two-way audio, you can talk to the person at the door too. Best Overall: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. It's difficult to fit the necessary adapter if things aren't lined up neatly. Other locks with Wi-Fi built in cost just as much and require replacing your entire deadbolt. If you're concerned about compatibility with your existing deadbolt, August has a helpful page listing compatible models from most brands. The August Smart Lock Pro is one of the best looking smart locks on the market, though from the outside, you would never know it's there. August announced the availability in a blog post and highlighted its new smart lock’s features: Sized 45% smaller in volume and 20% slimmer than the August Smart Lock … We delete comments that violate our policy, which we encourage you to read. Top posts february 28th 2020 Top posts of february, 2020 Top posts 2020. Additional features include the ability to lock/unlock automatically based on your current location, two-factor authentication, two-layer encryption, and a lost phone tool. I was delighted with the small scale of this August model. Would you rather use security codes to unlock your door? For more flexibility, be sure to purchase an August Wi-Fi Bridge so you can control your door locks from anywhere. Based in San Francisco, California, the company was purchased by Swedish lock manufacturer Assa Abloy in 2017. Redesigns in Wi-Fi chip technology made it possible for companies like August to work it into lock design more easily. CNET may get a commission from these offers. Shine a light on your phone’s snapshots with these iPhoneography accessories! August's new lock features a couple of important changes: built-in Wi-Fi and a much smaller body. Because it's retrofit, you won't need to much at all to your physical deadbolt, beyond removing the thumb latch on the interior side of the door. In setup, I opted for the lock to relock after five minutes. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock runs on two CR123 batteries. Online. 2021. That's a big help not having to fiddle with keys or an app to open the door. Now, there's a new one on the scene. When it comes to security, August implements enough features to make me feel good about putting it on my door. 2.0k.