Amazon Launches Lock Kit for In-Home Deliveries

Amazon is launching another new last-mile delivery service, this time letting Prime members give couriers remote access to their homes through a mobile application.The service requires the Amazon Key In-Home Kit, which starts at $249.99 and includes an Amazon Cloud Cam indoor security camera plus one of several compatible smart locks by leading manufacturers Yale and Kwikset.Currently available for pre-orders, Amazon Key will launch on Nov. 8 in 37 markets across the U.S., with more locations rolling out over time. Users can select "in home" delivery while shopping and track the process with real-time notifications, a live camera feed or a video recording after delivery is complete.Each time a delivery driver requests access to a customer’s home, Amazon verifies that the correct driver is at the right address at the intended time. Once this process is successfully completed, Amazon Cloud Cam starts recording and the door is then unlocked. No access codes or keys are ever provided to delivery drivers, and Amazon backs the service with its Happiness Guarantee, promising to correct any problems if a delivery is not completed to the customer's satisfaction. Users can set the frequency and length of time a person has access to their homes, and add or remove contacts.In the coming months, Amazon Key will also offer professional service scheduling for thousands of providers, including home cleaning experts from Merry Maids, and pet sitters and dog walkers on Rover.com, as well as over 1,200 services from providers across 60 professions via Amazon Home Services.Amazon posted a video to its YouTube channel on Oct. 25 touting the service. (See below.) The video also plays on a dedicated amazon.com landing page that offers service details. A home page carousel ad supported.The move is the latest in a battle for the final frontier against Walmart, which has been unveiling a slew of its own last-mile fulfillment solutions. (See related articles.)P2PI Update: In April 2018 Amazon expanded the service nationwide for keyless entry, remote lock and unlock, and guest access. A total of eight locks now work with Amazon Key. In-home delivery is still only available to Prime customers in 37 US cities and surrounding areas, but that same month Amazon also added in-car delivery for compatible vehicles.

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