Sesame seems to still be on pace for their first production batch of locks at the end of April 2015, so I think now is an appropriate time to go over what it offers.
Sesame – Bluetooth Smart Lock
Sesame works with your existing dead bolt to unlock or lock your door via Bluetooth when you come home or leave. And, if you like, you can add an optional WiFi module to connect it to the internet.
The retail price will be $150, but you can preorder now on Kickstarter for $100.
The selling points are:
- Installs with double sided adhesive over your existing lock (traditional throw mechanism)
- Connects to your phone with Bluetooth to sense when you’re in the area and unlock the door
- OR, open your door with a special knock that you set up (now that’s nifty!)
- Receive notifications on your phone when your lock opens or closes
- Available in black, white, silver, and pink
[dropcap]T[/dropcap]echnically, this doesn’t make your lock any more secure than a traditional deadbolt. So, why would we feature it? Because notifications can alert you if the lock was opened when you didn’t expect it. That way, someone copying your key, bumping, or picking your lock would all cause a notification on your phone so that you can be alerted. And, if you choose to connect it to the internet, you can let in the repair man or baby sitter.
Since the mechanism is so universal, you may even be able to rig up the Sesame to turn on your washing machine, dryer, or dishwasher too, assuming those have similar knobs. Those would be interesting applications for sure, but a bit of a stretch at this price point.
How does Sesame work?
Sesame is designed to fit over your existing dead bolt on the inside of your door. In that respect, it’s going to be much easier to install than a whole lock assembly.
Then, when your phone is within range and connects to the lock, you can have it unlock the deadbolt for you without keys. However, you’ll have to keep the knob unlocked (assuming you have one) or else keep carrying your keys around to unlock the bottom lock.
What does Sesame cost?
The base package with the lock retails for $150 and the WiFi add-on adds another $50. You can preorder one now for $100 or $150 on Kickstarter, though.
The Skinny
I’m not a big fan of ADDING vulnerabilities to your home’s security (Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity). But, I do see the value in being notified when your lock is opened, using an open source domotics software to be easily notified via their smartphones or an off-the-shelf solution like SmartThings. However, anybody with a security system is going to get the same thing with an entry sensor on the door.
I also wouldn’t be crazy about leaving my door knob unlocked so that the Sesame could grant access to the house with the one remaining lock. Granted, it won’t bear as much force as a dead bolt if someone tries to break in, but the extra latch and strike plate will likely help slow the process down.
That being said, if you regularly let people into your home remotely or feel like you can’t trust your teenager with keys, then maybe a smart lock is in your future. If that’s the case, then Sesame is a good option since it installs easily, and it’s easy to take with you once you move.
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Hi, I’m Jody. I graduated with honors with a Masters of Science in Computer Engineering and have over 15 years of experience working as an engineer with electronics products. I’m a lifelong learner and tinkerer and enjoy automating things around the house so I can solve bigger problems than getting out of bed to check if the garage door is closed . . . like too little sleep!
