Today, Amazon has debuted its new Key deliver service. Exclusive to Prime members, the service allows users to have their package delivered in-home, meaning the delivery person opens your front door and drops off your box. The service is available when users purchase certain equipment such as a smart lock and security camera which Amazon is also introducing today.
The process for how someone gets into your home is rather interesting: once a delivery person is at your home, he/she scans a barcode on your package which requests Amazon gives access to your home. If everything checks out (e.g. correct driver, correct package, correct home), Amazon gives drivers a prompt they can swipe which then unlocks your home. The person slips your package into the smallest crack in your door possible and avoids going into your house if possible. Afterward, he/she closes and locks your door. A video provided by your security camera will record this entire procedure so you can watch it in real time or verify everything went well in the future.
Amazon’s not only following this procedure for every in-home delivery but its also not letting third-party delivery companies do it. This is the company’s way to make the service more secure. That’s why Key is currently only available in 37 cities and in their surrounding areas. Only Amazon Logistics will be able to bring you your package, and if they’re not available in your area, neither is Key.
Of course, this still raises worry for anyone a bit sensitive about a stranger entering your house. The service is clearly aimed at folks who may be worried their package might be stolen if it sits outside all day especially around this time of year, but you need to remember there’s nothing stopping the delivery driver from entering your home and staying there. Amazon’s using its own delivery service to basically say “hey, we trust these people and there’s nothing to worry about so give us access to your house.” Whether that’s enough is unclear, but Amazon hopes to expand to third-party delivery services soon so I’m gonna assume you’ll be okay.
“Amazon Key gives customers peace of mind knowing their orders have been safely delivered to their homes and are waiting for them when they walk through their doors,” said Peter Larsen, Vice President of Delivery Technology, Amazon. “Now, Prime members can select in-home delivery and conveniently see their packages being delivered right from their mobile phones.”
Still, it is a bit creepy that someone will be entering your house because they basically have a key to get in. Amazon encourages delivery drivers to knock on the door to ensure anyone inside the home knows someone is coming in, but this could also scare someone if they’re not expecting it. But hey, I suppose you’ll have to get used to Amazon dropping by so you don’t remain on your toes every time you’re home alone.
To launch, Amazon will be utilizing its own Cloud Cam security camera with smart locks from manufacturers Yale and Kwikset. An In-Home Kit will be available for $249.99 which gives you a camera, lock, and free installation. If the service takes off, Amazon hopes to expand it to other services in the company’s Home Services division such as Merry Maids home cleaning and Rover.com dog walking and pet sitters. To see if you’re eligible to sign up for Key, click here.
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