Wyze’s Budget Smart Lock Now Has Built-In Wi-Fi for Free
▼ Summary
– Wyze has released a new Wi-Fi-enabled version of its smart lock, the Lock Bolt v2, allowing remote control via mobile app or voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
– The new model is priced at $79.98, the same as the original, and offers enhanced flexibility with Wi-Fi connectivity for monitoring and locking the door from anywhere.
– It features an integrated fingerprint reader for quick access, stores biometric data locally for security, and includes an illuminated touchpad with tempered glass instead of keypad buttons.
– Battery life is up to eight months, slightly less than the original, and it has a USB-C emergency port and physical key option for entry if batteries die.
– The lock includes a customizable alarm for tampering or failed unlock attempts and can integrate with Wyze video doorbells to unlock directly from the livestream.
Wyze has just unveiled an upgraded version of its popular smart lock, now featuring built-in Wi-Fi connectivity at no extra cost. This enhancement allows users to control their door lock remotely from anywhere using the Wyze mobile app or through voice commands with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The new Wyze Lock Bolt v2 maintains the same affordable price of $79.98, making advanced smart home security accessible to a wider audience.
Previously, the original Wyze Lock Bolt relied solely on Bluetooth, which limited its functionality to short-range operation. With the addition of Wi-Fi, the Lock Bolt v2 offers significantly more flexibility, letting homeowners lock or unlock their doors while away, receive activity alerts, and monitor access in real time. This model continues to be recognized as a top budget-friendly option in the smart lock category, now with expanded capabilities for greater convenience and security.
Key features from the earlier version have been retained and improved. The integrated fingerprint reader remains, capable of identifying authorized users and unlocking the door in roughly half a second. All biometric data is stored locally on the lock itself, enhancing privacy and security. The physical keypad has been replaced by an illuminated touchpad made from scratch-resistant tempered glass, offering a sleek, modern look while resisting smudges and wear.
Users can store up to 50 unique access codes and generate temporary, single-use passcodes for guests that expire after a set period. A clever “code obfuscation” feature lets you disguise your entry code by entering additional digits before and after the real combination, adding another layer of security against observers.
Battery life for the Lock Bolt v2 is rated for up to eight months, a slight reduction from the original model’s twelve-month expectancy, due to the added power demands of Wi-Fi. Should the batteries run out while you’re away, a USB-C emergency port allows you to temporarily power the lock using an external battery pack. For added peace of mind, a physical key override is also included for situations where electronic access isn’t possible.
The lock includes a customizable alarm that triggers if tampering is detected or after multiple failed unlock attempts. For households with other Wyze devices, integration is available with Wyze video doorbells, enabling users to unlock the door directly from the doorbell’s live video feed, creating a seamless and responsive home entry system.
(Source: The Verge)
