Home owners are increasingly opting to go keyless not just for their vehicles, but their homes as well, as the popularity of digital locks has surged over the past three years.
With features such as keycard access, fingerprint scanners, password entry and even phone-app unlocking, digital locks are changing the game for an otherwise enduring invention.
Digital locks have been on the market for almost a decade. But their popularity among home owners, particularly those staying in Housing Board flats, has exploded in the past year, according to Mr Ivan Lee, director and co-founder of An Digital Lock. The retailer's sales have increased by 25 to 30 per cent year on year over the past three years, he said.
Most users cite convenience as the main reason for opting for a digital lock over a traditional one, as they do not need to carry a set of keys around with them. Neither do they have to worry about forgetting to lock their doors, as such a lock will automatically latch itself when the door is closed.
"I wanted to get a lock which would reduce the amount of hassle when I come home," said Mr Andy Wee, 33, who works in a tuition agency. He installed a Samsung digital lock at his Design, Build and Sell Scheme (DBSS) apartment in Yishun last July.
"Many times when I return home, I would realise that I had left my keys at my workplace or in the car, and would have to go back to get them," Mr Wee said.
My Digital Lock founder Ronn Teo said his number of installations has jumped significantly this year, but declined to reveal figures.
Half of the digital locks are installed at HDB flats, particularly new Build-To-Order or DBSS units, he said. His firm's clientele comprises mostly young, just-married couples, with a "few people in their 40s".
The other installations are split evenly between condominiums and office spaces.
Both Samsung and Yale are popular choices here due to their strong brand name and brand association, said Mr Teo.
But brands such as Kaba, Evernet, Gateman, Mykey, Hyundai and Virdi have also been making headway, giving consumers a wealth of options in terms of design, functions and looks.
Installation of digital locks is generally quick, with qualified contractors typically able to finish the job in less than two hours.
The basic tier of locks start from $299, such as the Yale YDR3110, and function as add-ons to existing locks on doors. Such locks offer either PIN access or key card access, or both.
http://www.straitstimes.com/tech/cards-codes-fingerprints-the-new-key-to-home-security
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