The traditional padlock gets the “smart” treatment

You’d probably expect the padlock to be the last thing to go high tech, but an Australian company has done just that. Mobile accessory maker Dog & Bone released the LockSmart Tuesday, a keyless, app-controlled, Bluetooth padlock.

Users manage their padlocks through a smartphone app, and have a variety of methods at their disposal to unlock the LockSmart: either by passcode, Touch ID, or tapping an icon on the phone app. The unlock signal is then sent by Bluetooth using 128-bit encryption to the padlock.

LockSmart owners can also share access to the padlock with others via the app, the company says. Every time the padlock is accessed, the app alerts the owner allowing for real-time tracking of lock use.
The impact on you: If you’re like me and are either forgetful or just have a hard time remembering lock combinations, LockSmart is a pretty interesting concept. This said, at upwards of $90 for a padlock, it might be a little too rich for most—and some may see it as a solution in search of a problem at that price.

First of its kind

Dog & Bone claims that LockSmart, which it now holds a patent for, is the first of its kind. The selection of Bluetooth is not too surprising either considering its low-power capabilities. Users can expect about 3000 unlocks before a recharge is needed, and the app will notify the user when the

lock’s battery is low.
The lock is now available from Dog & Bone’s website, and the company says it will be available at retail in the US at all RadioShack locations beginning in December. The standard LockSmart retails for $90, while the smaller version will set you back $70.

LockSmart should hold up to the elements well given its construction, as it is made of hardened steel and zinc alloy encased in a waterproof seal. Since many of us use padlocks to lock our sheds and other outdoor items, that’s a good decision on Dog & Bone’s part and makes it a bit more useful in a wider variety of situations.