A new service from Amazon.com Inc. offers in-home delivery as well as access to your home for guests, family and services.
Available to Prime subscribers, "Amazon Key" uses an app, a "smart" lock on your door, and a security camera to allow delivery of packages inside your door. The program allows packages to be securely delivered to customers without them having be there.
The service will be available beginning Nov. 8 in Houston and 36 other metro areas across the U.S.
The new service is meant to thwart the theft of packages left on customers' front porches.
An Amazon Logistics delivery driver will request access to a customer's home, and Amazon will verify that the correct driver is at the right address at the intended time through an encrypted authentication process.
The app allows the customer to receive notifications of the delivery in real time, then the camera begins recording and the door is unlocked for the delivery driver. No access codes or keys are ever provided to the delivery driver.
The service requires that Amazon customers obtain an Amazon Key In-Home Kit for $249.99, including the Amazon Cloud Cam and compatible smart locks by manufacturers Yale and Kiwkset. Amazon is providing free professional installation, or the lock can be installed by the customer.
Additional features include keyless access for friends and family, who can be added or removed and granted access for different frequencies and lengths of time.
Amazon Key deliveries will come only through Amazon's own delivery service and not from other carriers the company uses, such as UPS, FedEx and the Postal Service.
Amazon plans to eventually add professional service scheduling through Amazon Key, including Merry Maids home cleaning, Rover.com pet sitters and dog walkers, and others through Amazon Home Services.