Smart Security Blog
With our newest update for your Kevo smart lock, we’ve added a new Kevo skill for Amazon Alexa. Now you can lock, unlock, and check the status of your Kevo locks using only your voice. The smart lock just got smarter.
How Does it Work?
Enabling the Kevo skill and linking your Kevo smart lock account to your device with Alexa gives voice control to your door locks. Once you link your accounts, you can issue voice commands to Alexa like:
- Alexa, ask Kevo to list my locks.
- Alexa, ask Kevo to check the status of my front door.
- Alexa, ask Kevo to lock my front door.
- Alexa, ask Kevo to unlock my front door.
*Note, when you connect your Kevo smart lock to Amazon Alexa you are required to set up and speak a 4-12 digit pin for additional security. In testing, we found that you can also whisper your pin to Alexa to prevent your pin from being overheard, increasing security.
Is it Safe?
Your Kevo and Kevo Plus already feature unmatched smart lock security. With military-grade PKI encryption and inside-outside technology protecting the digital experience and the latest SmartKey security protecting the mechanical cylinder, you can feel safe with a Kevo smart lock on your door. For more on the security technology in your Kevo smart lock please visit the Kevo security page.
If you do choose to use Alexa to unlock your Kevo, be sure to set a secure 4-12 digit pin code. 1…2…3…4, your birthday, or your ATM pin code aren’t the most secure choices. Remember, you’ll be saying this aloud, or whispering quietly, to unlock your Kevo using Alexa, so your pin should be easy to remember but also unique to your device with Amazon Alexa.
What hardware is required?
To connect your Kevo to Alexa you’ll need 3 pieces of hardware:
- Kevo Smart Lock (Gen 1 or Gen 2)
- Kevo Plus – Learn more here: http://www.kwikset.com/kevo/plus
- Device with Amazon Alexa (for example, Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, or Amazon Tap)
That’s it! With those three pieces of smart home hardware, you’re on your way to full voice control of your smart home.
Kevo works with many more smart home technologies. Check out these posts for more information: