Amazon Key is a new service that allows Prime members in 37 cities and surrounding areas across the U.S. to receive in-home delivery by granting secure home access for guests using the Amazon Cloud Cam and a compatible smart lock. Once installed, simply use the Amazon Key app to lock or unlock their Kwikset smart lock from anywhere, check the lock status and receive lock notifications. Members can also grant home access to friends, family and others using the Amazon Key app. The camera is basically the hub, which is connected to the internet via your home Wi-Fi, and it talks to the lock over Zigbee, a wireless protocol utilized by many smart home devices. More information. Continue reading for a hands-on video preview and more information.
“When a courier arrives with a package for in-home delivery, they scan the barcode, sending a request to Amazon’s cloud. If everything checks out, the cloud grants permission by sending a message back to the camera, which starts recording. The courier then gets a prompt on their app, swipes the screen, and voil�, your door unlocks. They drop off the package, relock the door with another swipe, and are on their way. The customer will get a notification that their delivery has arrived, along with a short video showing the drop-off to confirm everything was done properly,” reports The Verge.
