Im pretty trusting when it comes to technology.
Ive shrugged at putting Google Assistant in my house.
Ive walked around wearing an array of smartwatches without a single care in the world.
I didnt do these things because I dont give a fuck about privacy.Far from it.
The rationale is simpler that that: I just love technology.
I adore trying out things that can make my life better, slicker, or just plain cooler.
But Ive had to draw a line in the sand: Smart locks.
This popped into my head following announcements of new connected-products from Yale and its sister company August at CES.
It’s free, every week, in your inbox.
Thats pretty fucking cool.
Then you have Yale.
Its pretty damn clever.
But, and herein lies the problem, I dont trust them.
Its nothing to do with the companies themselves.
Yale and August are well regarded businesses with, from what I can ascertain, glittering security records.
No, this is about how much I trust technology as a whole.
Its reliable, well-tested, and works in any normal circumstance.
Smart locks on the other hand are an unknown quantity.
What real-world factors could force a smart lock to malfunction?
What unexpected circumstances could allow someone access?
This means we need to do a personal equation: Are the benefits smart locks deliver worth the risks?
In my mind, no.
I can unplug my voice-activated assistant.
I can take off a smartwatch.
I can turn off my phone.
Removing a smart lock is far more intensive process once its installed, its installed.
Taking it off isnt is simple as flicking a switch.
Of course fucking not, but some of the most profound human emotions arent either.
Theres something ethereal, important, and comforting about your home.
Its like a secure embrace, a literal safe space.
Of course, this is just an opinion.
So, smart locks, youre great, but Im going to stick with a regular key.
