Technology can be scary. In fact, a recent survey of Americans discovered respondents were more scared of robots than death. That might sound a little far-fetched and stupid. Even Elon Musk, is a little scared and he’s a clever guy. Yet he’s worried artificial intelligence will take over the world. Elon’s no different from most of us in that respect. We all fear things we don’t have control over. That’s technology.
So, what about Smart Locks? Well, for the sake of clarity we should point out the E-LOK is not going to take over the world by locking Leaders out of Parliament or people out of homes. Even if you did want us to do one of those things.
As to the other myths about Smart Locks - most seem reasonable at first glance. Indeed, they’re often believed by people until we shared this list of 7 common Smart Lock myths and why they aren’t true.
1. If I lose my smartphone my Smart Lock won’t work
This is a common myth and if you lose your phone, you can still use a Smart Lock. This is because nearly all Smart Locks have more than one mode of entry. For example, our models allow entry via Fingerprint, PIN-Code and RFID Card too. And there’s even a mechanical key override if you need it. So no, you won’t be locked out if you lose your phone. If you’re the forgetful type who loses things, then a Smart Lock is perfect for you. You won’t have to worry about losing keys. Also, if you don’t find your phone, you can simply log back into your E-LOK account and control your Smart Lock again.
2. Smart Locks are less durable than traditional locks
Any lock is only as durable as the parts it’s made from. It doesn’t matter if it’s a traditional lock or a Smart Lock, make it from rubbish and the durability will be rubbish.
E-LOK’s are not made from rubbish. They've been specifically designed to withstand the New Zealand climate and are made from high-end materials. They come with up to an IP66 rating - that’s good enough to withstand ‘heavy seas’. Not that we made them for boat cabins, but it does rain a bit in Invercargill and we make them to work there.
3. Smart locks do not work during a power cut
Our E-LOK’s are independent units and aren’t wired into your household power supply. Ours operate via Alkaline batteries which last a long time and are easily changed. The E-LOK app keeps you updated with the battery status and there’s always that mechanical key override if you miss the low battery warning.
4. If the internet goes down my Smart Lock won’t work
We’ve designed our locks for New Zealand and we know the internet can sometimes go down, particularly in rural areas. Your Fingerprint will still work, as will RFID cards, your PIN-Code and Bluetooth access. Only if you’re operating with your E-LOK Gateway for remote access, then you will come into issue with no internet.
5. Smart Locks are hard to use
The truth is the complete opposite. Smart locks are easier to use than key locks. Seriously, they are. How many times have you searched for the right key to lock a door (and probably kicked yourself for not getting some of those colour coded key cover thingies)? There’s no fumbling around with a smart lock, you place your fingers on the Keypad and tap away. It is that easy.
In fact, E-LOKs are being used in several housing developments designed for the elderly. One of the reasons is ease of use.
6. Someone could guess my pin code
A 4-Digit code has 10,000 possible combinations. To brute force a 4-Digit PIN would take around 10 hours, based on it taking 10 seconds per attempt. Of course, this doesn't include toilet breaks or stopping for a steak and cheese pie. So, we reckon it might take longer.
You could even choose a 9-Digit PIN. That has 3 million possible combinations and anyone trying to guess it would need a tent for sleep breaks. That would get noticed by the neighbours.
We know what you’re thinking though - it’ll be easy to see which digits are pressed as they’ll be marked. That’ll make it easier. It would if the fingerprint panel wasn’t fingerprint resistant, which it is. So, there’ll be no marks.
7. Smart locks don’t fit narrow aluminium like we have in New Zealand
This is partly true. They never used to until we released the 7-Series.
The 7-Series has been purpose built for new and retrofit installations, which includes the aluminium joinery typical of homes built in the 90’s and 2000’s. At just 38mm wide, it’s the slimmest smart lock in New Zealand, because we believe good security shouldn't be obtrusive or detract from the aesthetics of your home.
It’s natural to be sceptical about new technology but the truth about smart locks is actually very simple. They work just like old locks do. They move a bolt from the door to the frame to secure it. It’s just you don’t need a key to do it.
One way to look at it is this - not so long ago everyone was using a manual key to get in and out of their vehicles. Then we suddenly had buttons to press and everything became easier. Which is what the best technology does. It makes everything easier.