August’s smart lock pioneered keyless smartphone entry and remote access, becoming essential for Airbnb hosts and early smart home adopters before Yale’s $1.4 billion acquisition.
The Kickstarter Success
Founded by Yves Béhar (designer) and Jason Johnson (ex-Apple), August launched on Kickstarter in October 2013, raising $2.2 million. The cylindrical smart lock installed over existing deadbolts without replacing the entire mechanism—preserving keys for guests while adding smartphone entry. The iOS/Android app allowed remote unlocking, temporary guest access codes, and activity logs. #AugustSmartLock early adopters were tech enthusiasts and Airbnb hosts tired of lockbox key exchanges.
The August lock addressed common smart home hesitations: easy installation (15 minutes, no locksmith), works with existing keys, and no permanent modifications for renters. Integration with Nest cameras and smart home platforms (HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home) made it a smart home hub device. Auto-unlock via Bluetooth geofencing created magic—doors unlocked as you approached with your phone.
The Airbnb Economy Driver
August’s killer use case emerged: Airbnb hosts generating unique entry codes per guest, remotely granting access, and receiving entry notifications. No more hiding keys under doormats or coordinating in-person handoffs. By 2016, thousands of Airbnb listings advertised August locks as premium amenities. The DoorSense sensor (added 2017) confirmed whether doors actually closed—critical for rental security.
Competition intensified: Schlage Encode, Kwikset Premis, and Yale’s own smart locks. August responded with the Connect Wi-Fi bridge (enabling remote access beyond Bluetooth range) and the smart lock pro (2017) at $279. In December 2017, Assa Abloy (Yale’s parent) acquired August for $1.4 billion—validating smart lock market potential.
Post-acquisition, August maintained its brand through 2021, when Yale absorbed it entirely. The August app persisted but new locks carried Yale branding. #AugustSmartLock discussions focused on smart home essentials, whether keyless entry was more secure than physical keys, and Airbnb/rental property management. August proved smartphones could replace keys—a once-radical idea now mainstream.
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