A whopping 79% of people ages 18 to 44 have their smartphones on them for 22 hours a day, according to consumer research cited by Kwikset. Using that information, the company partnered with UniKey Technologies to develop the smartphone-friendly Kevo deadbolt. Kwikset calls Kevo the first deadbolt intelligent enough to communicate with a smartphone and unlock with just a touch. In fact, users don't even need to have their smartphone in-hand when unlocking the door, thanks to Bluetooth integration.

“The launch is representative of our commitment to taking Spectrum Brands’ hardware offerings to the next level of smart home technologies,” said David Lumley, chief executive officer of Kwikset's parent company Spectrum Brands Holdings. “We are pushing the envelope by investing in leading innovations that respond to consumer demands."

Kevo is operated with a mobile app that turns a smartphone into an electronic key. Using the latest Bluetooth technology, Kevo can recognize and respond to the touch of a finger while communicating with the app in the background of the smartphone. Homeowners can add authorized users to Kevo through the app, giving trusted neighbors, caregivers, or service providers access as needed. UniKey's patent-pending intelligent positioning technology can tell whether a user is inside or outside the home before granting access to prevent unauthorized entry. Multiple levels of encryption increase digital security, and the deadbolt itself is tested to meeting stringent lock-picking and phsycial security standards. 

"UniKey's innovating touch-to-open system creates a platform for how we will interact with locks in teh future," says UniKey president Phil Dumas. "By uniquely combining existing mobile and Bluetooth technologies, we're bringing your front door into the digital age without compromising the look or security of the lock."

The lock also contains Kwikset's SmartKey re-key technology, and can be operated with an available key fob for homeowners that don't use smartphones. Kevo is currently available on the Apple platform and will become available for additional devices and platforms pending software upgrades to support Bluetooth Smart Ready/Bluetooth 4.0 technology. Kevo is available for pre-order July 30. Kwikset | 800.327.5625 | kwikset.com