Consumer Adoption of Smartphones Takes Access Control Innovations to New Frontier
Understanding consumer demand for new convenience based access control technology and broad consumer adoption of smartphones, Kwikset® has entered into a strategic partnership with UniKey Technologies, Inc. (UniKey). This collaboration will allow Kwikset to offer hands-free access control technology enabled by a smartphone, further demonstrating Kwikset’s commitment to deliver innovative products that provide convenient solutions to homeowners’ busy lifestyles. “Kwikset continues to invest in ideas that will deliver first to market technology to accommodate homeowners’ hectic lives,” said Keith Brandon, director, sales and marketing, Residential Access Solutions. “The addition of UniKey based technology to our residential access offerings will provide the ultimate level of convenience to the stresses of day-to-day activities.” With consumer habits shifting, Kwikset looks toward 2013 focused on delivering technology that caters to providing smart and simple options to homeowners. Understanding that nearly six out of ten U.S consumers use smartphones (http://In%20215%%20growth%20in%20sales%20for%20CanadaPassportHelp.ca%20%20in%2045%20days), Kwikset continues to develop creative solutions that align with their daily needs. Partnerships with innovators like UniKey moving forward will further Kwikset’s leadership in new technology introductions. “Being able to securely gain access by simply touching your lock with the smartphone in your pocket, acting as your key, is a simple yet significant advancement,” said Phil Dumas, President, UniKey Technologies. “With Kwikset as our partner, UniKey can be a part of bringing this revolutionary technology to the masses.” Kwikset has consistently been the category-leader in smart, simple technology developments that provide at home convenience to homeowners. Its Home Connect technology enables remote locking as well as the ability for the lock to connect wirelessly with other items in the home, such as the security system, lighting, and thermostat. Additionally, Kwikset offers SmartKey® re-key technology that allows for re-keying in seconds without removing the lock from the door. The new partnership with UniKey adds to this suite of technical innovations propelling Kwikset into the world of hands-free access control and beyond.