There are 3 ways to unlock the door. First is the old fashioned way with a key, second can be done through the backlit touchscreen panel by entering your code. Lastly, you can use your smartphone to unlock the door. Between these 3 options, you can choose which is most convenient for you, and each other member of your family.
You can give each user a specific code unique to them, and these codes can be configured to expire after a set amount of time, or only active during certain hours of the day. For example, if you had contractors doing some work in your house or any other temporary workers like house-sitters or dog walkers, you can give them a numeric code instead of a key.
You can store up to 30 codes at once, and codes can be anywhere from 4-8 digits (although all of the codes must be the same length).
This door lock has earned the ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 rating. The grade 1 rating this deadbolt lock received is the highest available for home systems. In addition, there is an optional reinforcement plate to add to the strength of the lock. This helps prevent intruders from breaking down/kicking in the door.
Without an Apple TV, you'll be limited to Bluetooth range. An Apple TV will allow you to control the door lock from anywhere that has an internet connection. This is still a secure connection however, as the Apple TV will check the ID of the incoming messages to be sure somebody else isn't trying to hack into your house.
The portion of the lock that rests on the inside of your door is needlessly bulky. While not an eyesore from the outside, it's very noticeable from the inside that your door lock is massive.
As long as you have a regularly sized door, the only tool you'll need is a screwdriver. Pairing with the app is very easy as well - just use the app to scan the code found on the front of the manual.
On the numberpad on the outside of the door you can enter a code to unlock the door. The problem is that each code has to be the same length, which can make it harder for some to remember.
You can give out personal codes which will unlock the door, and you can have an unlimited number of these codes. However, if you don't have the optional wireless keypad ($79) each user will need to download the app and enter their code there. These codes can be configured to have a time duration where they will expire, or they can be permanent.
This smart lock is installed only on the inside of your door, and doesn't replace your existing lock. This means that you keep your current keys, and installation is a bit easier as you don't have to disassemble your door.
Every time the door locks or unlocks, it will record the data in a logbook. This entry includes who performed the action, and there is space to write a note as well if you wish.
With just the Smart Lock itself, the range is limited to Bluetooth, which means you need to be physically close to the lock. To control your lock using Wi-Fi (range is unlimited as long as you have internet access), you will need to purchase additional hardware (August Connect which costs $79, or an Apple TV which costs $99). These act as an in-between device, using a bluetooth signal to communicate with the lock and using Wi-Fi to connect with your phone.
This lock has enough smarts to automatically lock and unlock. Depending on your settings, you can set it to unlock automatically when it detects your phone is near, and automatically lock a few seconds after you leave.
This is one of the few products that works with both Apple's HomeKit and Google's Nest devices. For example, when you unlock your door it can automatically trigger the Nest thermostat to turn on, and the Nest cam to turn off.