Lockitron Blog Bolt Keypad Entering Production

Here at Lockitron we're off to a running start for 2017 with exciting news: Bolt Keypad is just around the corner!If you've received and installed Lockitron Bolt you may have noticed a small cable running from the back of the unit. That cable is to add pin code functionality to Lockitron Bolt through our optional Keypad, a $49 add-on that gives you an additional way to share permanent or temporary access.With Keypad, you can easily add and remove pin codes straight from your smartphone. If you have Bridge, you can set and revoke pin codes from anywhere in the world.Keypad Tooling ReadyLast month we wrapped up the die cast tool required for Bolt Keypad. Like the metal components for Bolt, the metal portion of the lock is die cast then finished into either a Quicksilver or Modern Gold unit.To install Keypad you'll remove Lockitron Bolt and slot the cylinder front included with Bolt into the hole on Keypad's front.A initial test run of the rubber pin pads were produced to test the luminosity of the lights behind the buttons. The original LEDs tested were too dim, so we're moving to a brighter solution so you won't have trouble entering a pin code even if there is no porch light to help you tap it in.Beta Keypad functionality is already built into the Lockitron apps - with all the moving parts in place we're working to have the first set of Keypad units ready for shipment at the end of next month.If you've already received your Bolt and would like to add on Keypad once it's shipping you can do so by heading to the Lockitron store and opting for Keypad "without Bolt".We're pleased to announced that Lockitron is now integrated with IFTTT ("If this, then that")! IFTTT connects Lockitron to hundred of other popular devices and apps like the Nest thermostat, Lifx light bulbs, Wemo and more.What can I do with IFTTT? Just say the word!With Bolt and Bridge you can send commands to Lockitron via IFTTT, like asking Amazon Alexa or Google Home to lock the door for you on your way out.IFTTT will also let you set up a timed or conditional command - for instance you can have IFTTT send a lock command via Bridge to Bolt everyday at 9pm. Make sure to head to IFTTT to check out the channel!A Note on BridgeBehind the scenes we've recently pushed one firmware update to Bridge and are readying a second. The first firmware update solved an issue where Bridge failed to re-discover Bolt unless it was power cycled. Now Bridge will now continue to scan for Bolt after an unexpected disconnection.Our upcoming firmware update for Bridge works in conjunction with our current Bolt beta firmware to allow for remote Keypad control.On the production front we're still working to secure the timeline for when the replacement Bridge will be ready and will send out an update once it is. If you've placed a recent order that includes both Bolt and Bridge and would like to receive Bolt first, let us know at support@lockitron.com.Tips and Tricks: Multiple Users and one BoltWith thousands of Lockitrons in the field, we're changing focus of our updates to help existing Lockitron owners get more from Bolt. In this update we wanted to give some helpful tips on improving Bluetooth connectivity with your Lockitron Bolt.Sometimes it can be difficult to connect to Lockitron because another phone in the household is already connected. We're currently investigating a bug where an invited phone might stay connected to Bolt longer than intended. Here are some tips to identify if you have trouble connecting:Disable Bluetooth on other phones within range: if your unable to connect to Bolt after returning home, first test disabling Bluetooth on other nearby phones - it's possible that one of them is currently blocking your connection.Disable Sense on other devices: Sense can cause a phone to remain connected Bolt in the background for longer than expected; disabling it can help ensure that other users aren't blocking you from connecting.Make sure your Lockitron is running the latest firmware: upgrading your firmware can have a significant impact on Android, iOS and Bridge performance. Head to the "Settings" tab in the app and locate the firmware section. You might need to continue past a dialog box indicating your firmware is already up to date.