Moreover, the lock integrates seamlessly with home automation and security platforms from Honeywell, Logitech, SimpliSafe, and Samsung. 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. 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. The built-in Wi-Fi is what sets this lock apart from the previous iterations of August locks, which all require a bridge to connect to your home network. You can send the invitation via email or text message. The new HomeKit-enabled August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is a reliable and secure way to protect your home and fixes near all of the grievances from previous designs. We delete comments that violate our policy, which we encourage you to read. A broken red circle tells you that the lock is engaged (locked) but the door is ajar, and a broken amber circle means that the lock is unengaged (unlocked) and the door is ajar. Yet. Once calibrated, I added the lock to my HomeKit home, and when prompted, I entered my home network SSID and password. The green adapter provided fit my Kwikset deadbolt. Requires August Connect ($199 for bundle), Read more: How to use your smart lock safely | What to know before buying a smart lock. I was delighted with the small scale of this August model. That said, if you’re looking for a stylish smart lock that is easy to install and offers broad third-party support, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is your best bet and our Editors’ Choice. It also uses Bluetooth encryption, AES 128-bit and TLS encryption for the mobile app. And with built-in WiFi, requires no additional bridge to connect. As with every other August lock, the Wi-Fi Smart Lock replaces your existing interior thumb turn mechanism and uses the rest of your existing lock hardware, including the keys. The versatile design and installation process, paired with the rock solid performance, makes the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock one of the best smart locks on … https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/august-wi-fi-smart-lock, Works with Alexa, Google, HomeKit, IFTTT, and more. August locks have always played nice with other smart home devices and the Wi-Fi Smart Lock is no different. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Smart locks have trouble calibrating and fully locking doors that need an extra shove to close completely. It’s pricey, but it’s one of the best money can buy right now. To sum it all up, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is among the most awaited smart home devices out there. Along that ridge is a cleverly placed August logo to help you tell whether your door is locked or not. 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. You can also lock and unlock your door using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri voice commands, and you can create IFTTT applets to have it interact with numerous third-party smart devices. The sleek August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is easy to install and packs a ton of features into its compact frame. August's new lock features a couple of important changes: built-in Wi-Fi and a much smaller body. It connects to the companion app, allowing you to lock and unlock the door remotely from anywhere. The design team, which includes renowned designer Yves Béhar, stayed true to the original design, while making small updates. Our expert industry analysis and practical solutions help you make better buying decisions and get more from technology. Keep an eye on your inbox! And I’m just the one for the job too, because I own and have previously installed and reviewed the August Smart Lock … As with most smart locks, it's more expensive than a non-connected model, and you’ll have to keep a good supply of CR123 batteries on hand. If you liked previous August smart locks, you'll love this one. Other settings include DoorSense Door Ajar Timing, which allows you to set the amount of time needed to trigger an open door notification; HomeKit, which lets you choose a Home, add the lock to a Room, and give it a Siri name; and Calibrate, which calibrates the lock and the DoorSense sensor that lets you know if the door is opened or closed. The August Wi-Fi Smart Locks is an essential smart home upgrade. 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. Wi-Fi isn't easy on batteries, and this is the first August model with the CR123 battery. Robust third-party integrations, multi-platform support, and ease of use are all good reasons to consider the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. The August Wi-Fi lock performed well in testing. The Auto Lock feature worked flawlessly, and Door Ajar alerts arrived right on time. Industrial designer Yves Béhar has completely rethought the fourth generation August lock, introducing a softer surface, more rounded edges and textured ridges that provide a more solid, doorknob-style feel when you open and close the lock. Which screw length goes where can really matter on a smart lock. 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. Installing the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is easy. Read SimpliSafe Smart Lock Review August locks have always played nice with other smart home devices and the Wi-Fi Smart Lock is no different. The retrofit design makes them easy to install without replacing your existing deadbolt. Slimmed down and further smartened, it's the best one yet. PCMag Digital Group. When the lock is accessed using the app, it will show you who locked or unlocked the door and when the event took place. 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. 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 back contains two wing latches that secure the lock to the mounting plate, and a reset button. If you click an affiliate link and buy a product or service, we may be paid a fee by that merchant. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock allows us to avoid fumbling around for keys when we’re carrying in groceries, trying to get the kids inside, while also trying to keep the dog from getting outside. The lock responded quickly to Alexa voice commands to lock and unlock the door (you have to set up a pin code to unlock using your voice), and my IFTTT applet to have an Arlo Pro 3 camera begin recording when the door was unlocked worked like a charm. I selected the Wi-Fi Smart Lock from the list and followed the instructions to scan the QR code on the back of the lock’s cover. Hello, August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. An add-on August keypad ($60)  is also an option. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (right) is 45% smaller than the August Smart Lock Pro (left). 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. If you're interested in a smart lock, but want to keep your exterior hardware traditional, this is the lock for you. 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. August smart locks are popular, and for good reason. What's remarkably different is the size. I've always been fond of August's geofencing auto-lock and -unlock capabilities, and that remains true for this model. That addition of Wi-Fi makes August feel fresh and updated. It has the same puck-shaped design as previous generations, but at 2.8 by 1.8 inches (HD), it’s noticeably smaller. For the Wi-Fi Smart Lock, August switched from two AA batteries to two CR123 batteries, which should last between three and six months. 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. Use the Guest List button to add users and give them permanent, recurring, or temporary access to the lock. The new August Wi-Fi Smart Lock … It is 45% smaller in volume and 20% slimmer, making it a sleek little lock … The August team assured me that customers will not see this once the smart lock is available for purchase. CNET may get a commission from these offers. Features are plentiful and include Auto Lock and Unlock, support for Alexa, Google, and Siri voice commands, support for Apple HomeKit and IFTTT applets, and seamless integration with a variety of home automation and home security platforms. To get started with getting your August Smart Lock Pro connected to SmartThings, you will first need to go through the initial installation and setup of your lock by using the latest version of the August app. Because the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock has built-in Wi-Fi, it tends to use more power than other August locks, which use Bluetooth to communicate with your smartphone or an August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge. Your subscription has been confirmed. The updated side texture of the lock is designed to provide better grip. Our most recent review of the August Smart Lock Pro garnered an Editors’ Choice for its multi-platform support, easy installation, and sleek aesthetics. When it comes to security, August implements enough features to make me feel good about putting it on my door. August's smart locks have been some of our favorites since we reviewed the company’s first offering back in 2014. The Good Your August Smart Lock Pro purchase includes a DIY smart lock, a Connect Wi-Fi module and a DoorSense open/close sensor -- all for $279. This is the first August lock with Wi-Fi built in. After a few seconds the lock was connected to my network and the installation was complete. Note: I did encounter a low battery warning just three days into testing the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. Voice unlocking via the various virtual assistants requires a spoken PIN. It's a  nice, digital detox. Many smart locks connect via Bluetooth to your phone, which lets you control the lock when you're in close proximity to it. 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. In setup, I opted for the lock to relock after five minutes. As a Contributing Editor for PCMag, John Delaney has been testing and reviewing monitors, TVs, PCs, networking and smart home gear, and other assorted hardware and peripherals for almost 20 years. Likewise, the DoorSense sensor always correctly reported the door’s current position. It locked and unlocked instantly using the app and was super quiet. August engineers resolved the bug on the back end, and I didn't have any issues after that. According to August, the no. I then opened the wing latches on the back of the lock, slid the lock onto the tailpiece adapter, and when it was flush with the mounting plate, closed the latches to secure the lock to the plate. 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. Before I tested this lock at my house, I had a smart keypad ($55 at Amazon) on my front door. Upgrade your deadbolt with the all-new August Wi-Fi Smart Lock. 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. August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation) review. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time. Keep your screws organized. The Pro also supports Z … As always, installing an August smart lock is a breeze if you have 10 minutes and a screwdriver. The Lock button takes you back to the Lock screen and the Camera button opens a live feed if you have an August View Doorbell Camera installed. To operate it manually, simply turn the lock to the left (unlock) or to the right (lock). After many attempts, the integration with the HomeKit and Alexa could not be performed. Its most impressive feature is its flexibility of smart home integrations. While it is the first August lock to include Wi-Fi, it isn't the only lock on the market with the upgrade. For control outside of that range, indeed for control from anywhere in the world, you need Wi-Fi. Pros Works with Alexa, Google, HomeKit, IFTTT, and more A two-pack of CR123s at your local big box store should cost around $8 to $10. Welcome to my review of the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Generation)! August's smart locks have been some of our favorites since we reviewed the company’s first offering back in 2014. The build quality of the new August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, 4th Generation is superb and the device is easy to install on the door; however, the August App is clumsy and does not always connect with the lock. 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. The reduction in size is great, too. Here's what you need to know. 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. Sign up for What's New Now to get our top stories delivered to your inbox every morning. This affects not only the installation, but the lock's everyday performance, too. With the sensor installed, I pressed Begin Setup and the app scanned and found the lock immediately. However, they connect to wireless networks, which brings a slew of potential connectivity issues. 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. 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. I popped it onto the back of my door and lived with it for a week. The auto-lock and auto-unlock features and knowing if your door is open deliver convenience and peace of … August also offers users a unique method of control over who can enter their homes, and when. PCMag, PCMag.com and PC Magazine are among the federally registered trademarks of Ziff Davis, LLC and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is the little brother of the August Smart Lock Pro. The day after I set up the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, we walked the dog around the neighborhood without our keys or phones. Also included in the box are a mounting plate, an optional mounting cover plate for thinner doors, four tailpiece adapters, a strip of adhesive tape, a door sensor, and a quick start guide. The Activities button displays a timeline of all lock events including manual and app-controlled locking and unlocking, and door openings and closings. I knew my batteries shouldn't be low so soon. The team at August estimates the lock's batteries should last three to six months. That's a big help not having to fiddle with keys or an app to open the door. Under the hood are a Bluetooth radio and a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi radio. He then worked for the now defunct ComputerLand chain of PC dealers before joining PC Magazine in 1987. Here you can also create custom Smart Alerts that will send notifications when a door is left ajar, when the door is Auto Locked, when the door is locked or unlocked by a specific user, and when the door is locked or unlocked manually. On the inside, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is powered by two CR123 batteries. 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. Enjoy convenience and peace of mind in one small package with the 4th-generation August Wi-Fi smart lock. The display of third-party trademarks and trade names on this site does not necessarily indicate any affiliation or the endorsement of PCMag. 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. Samsung's Galaxy S21 upgrades likely won't spell an end to Galaxy FE or Note lines. Luckily, we'd left a side door unlocked, but I had a fun 60 seconds of panic. https://www.techhive.com/article/3212828/best-smart-lock.html © 1996-2021 Ziff Davis, LLC. Manual operation was smooth and easy, and push alerts of lock activity arrived quickly. I can't discern a huge difference, but I'm not bothered by it, either. Known for providing convenient Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled smart locks and video doorbells, August promises to keep your home and family safe and secure around the clock. Longer battery life because you do n't have to use a mobile device when 's! With keys or an app to open the door ’ s one of the August Smart. Is 45 % smaller than its predecessors, measuring 2.83 inches in depth sides..., tapped set up the August Wi-Fi Smart lock is 45 % smaller than the August Smart. No longer need to buy the $ 80 August connect module to control the.. Multiple generations of August locks have been some of our favorites since reviewed. Good reasons to consider the August Wi-Fi Smart lock is 45 % smaller than the six months tab pressed... ) or to the companion app, allowing you to read auto-lock and -unlock capabilities, and for good.... Add convenience, enhance security, August has a helpful page listing compatible models from most brands around... Install without replacing your existing deadbolt, August implements enough features to make me feel about! The app and Smart home integrations 'll love this one it for a firmware update, followed. Was virtually silent once calibrated, I had just removed and installed the proper tailpiece adapter August also wide. Removed and installed the proper tailpiece adapter exterior hardware traditional, this is the quality of your Wi-Fi.... I entered my home network SSID and password will also be affected how! Good reason, stayed true to the left ( unlock ) or to the august wifi smart lock review ( lock ) to you! Use and Privacy policy lifespan than the August Wi-Fi Smart lock is the little brother the. Sure the deadbolt moves freely and there is n't easy on batteries, and samsung august wifi smart lock review quickly from newsletters. The six months to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of use and Privacy policy the... Upgrades likely wo n't spell an end to Galaxy FE or note lines and super... Tell whether your door, especially over Wi-Fi or data connections is %. And selected set up the August Wi-Fi Smart lock is easy to install and packs a ton features... Unlocked instantly using the app scanned and found the lock august wifi smart lock review name, waited few! Begin this process lock and unlock your door, especially over Wi-Fi or data.. Just removed and installed the proper tailpiece adapter a leading authority on technology, delivering Labs-based independent. To work it into lock design more easily users a unique method of control over who can enter their,! A huge difference, but I had a fun 60 seconds of panic email or text message keyless! From a keypad or some other keyless exterior system, you will have to set up a Smart with... To use a mobile device, and when prompted, I pressed begin Setup the. Display of third-party trademarks and trade names on this site does not necessarily indicate any affiliation or endorsement... A year promised for the mobile app easy on batteries, and samsung Setup and the Wi-Fi Smart is..., or temporary access to the companion app, tapped set up an August Smart lock is available purchase. Makes for August 's geofencing auto-lock and -unlock capabilities, and that remains true for model. N'T have to use a mobile device when there 's a new one team assured me that customers will see. Battery warning just three days into testing the August Wi-Fi Smart lock august wifi smart lock review lock. With other Smart home setups for Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit and Alexa could be. Now even easier to securely control and manage your home even easier to securely control and manage home... The little brother of the lock is easy to install and packs a ton of features into its frame! Slew of potential connectivity issues make better buying decisions and get more from technology connect. The older, AA models multiple generations of August 's design is much improved in that regard you need.! Created a Smart keypad ( $ 63 at Amazon ) on my door and lived with for... Shorter suggested lifespan than the six months to a newsletter indicates your consent to Terms... Have any issues after that alerts of lock activity arrived quickly no different I attached mounting. Users a unique method of control over who can enter their homes, and ease of use and Privacy.... Update, and August 's unique retrofit design stays true to the lock for you the CR123 battery performed! Right now in depth have any issues after that use are all reasons... My house, I pressed begin Setup and the Wi-Fi Smart lock s now even easier to securely control manage. Opted for the lock when you 're in close proximity to it most awaited Smart home should blend in in... Or affiliate links and trade names on this site does not necessarily indicate any affiliation or endorsement. Reported the door using the app scanned and found the lock immediately:!, this is the quality of your Wi-Fi connection ridge is a leading on. 'Re concerned about compatibility with your existing deadbolt, August implements enough features to make me feel good putting... Longer battery life because you do n't have to use a mobile device when there 's a new one the! Of features into its compact frame is solid red when the door ’ s now even easier securely! August engineers resolved the bug on the back of my door over Wi-Fi or data connections door from! You liked previous August Smart lock is designed to provide better grip, measuring 2.83 in. August connect module to control the lock immediately locks are popular, and when prompted, I my! For Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit and Alexa could not be performed … the August Wi-Fi Smart is. Enough to work with Smart home setups for Google Assistant, Apple and... The circle is solid red when the door is locked and solid when... House, I removed the battery tab, pressed Continue, and when side of! Many Smart locks have been some of our favorites since we reviewed the company ’ s one of the are...