Locks can be picked and keys can be copied, but Smart Armor Tech's Smart Cube promises to safeguard your most important and valuable possessions using a smartphone to control access to an easily installed locking mechanism.
The crowdfunded device uses Bluetooth to turn your phone into a digital key, ensuring only authorized people can enter the liquor cupboard, gun drawer, or medicine cabinet.
In September, San Diego-based Smart Armor launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise $50,000 for its tiny locking device. Four months, and $452,617, later, the IoT company is showing off its finished product at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
Aimed at parents, business owners, Airbnb hosts, college students, and travelers—basically anyone with expensive, dangerous, or personal belongings—Smart Cube is available to pre-order now for $89. Alternatively, get three locks for $225.
Following this month's early-bird shipments to Indiegogo backers, the Smart Cube is expected for dispatch in March.
Powered by a pre-installed, easily replaceable camera battery, the fit-in-your-palm locking mechanism lasts up to two years. But keep an eye out for low-battery notifications: Once drained of energy, the gadget auto-unlocks until the battery is replaced.
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The lock itself—a 1.25-inch square—is made from fiber-infused ABS polycarbonate blend, making it "simultaneously lightweight and durable," according to Smart Armor. It is secured in place using 3M tape, which can withstand up to 100 pounds of force. If you want an even more secure lock, then there's the option of using two screws to hold it in place.
Sync with the iOS or Android mobile app to open and close the lock using a unique fingerprint or passcode. Then locate your valuables, share customized access with others (trusted friends and family), and track your activation history.
In the case of a lost or dead phone, the Smart Cube can be accessed from any handset (smartphone, tablet) or computer—as long as you know your access code.