Built by ex-Boeing and Jawbone engineers, Skylock is the first-ever connected device bicycle lock to combine robust mechanics, crash alerts, a sharing platform, a solar-powered rechargeable battery and more all into one device.
With over 1.5 million bike thefts in the US each year, it’s clear that the traditional bike lock does not provide adequate security. Skylock is a one-of-a-kind connected device that is based on a proprietary dual-locking design-making it twice as safe as a traditional u-lock.
In addition to robust mechanics, a theft alert system sends a message to your phone when someone touches your lock for an extended period. Combined, these features make Skylock a formidable foe to any would be thief, giving users more time to respond to any thefts in progress. Alerts are sent via bluetooth or via Wi-Fi, the first time either communication methods are available in one device.
Using Bluetooth Low-Energy, Wi-Fi, and an accelerometer, Skylock pairs itself with a smartphone to be contextually aware. Through this connectivity Skylock can keep cyclists safer by comparing accelerometer data from a smartphone to its own and determine when a rider has been in an accident. In the event of a severe impact Skylock will send a push notification to see if the rider is ok. If they fail to acknowledge the notification within a set number of seconds, Skylock will automatically determine that the rider is seriously hurt and alert emergency responders so they can come to the rider’s aid as quickly as possible.
Velo Labs has officially launched its crowdfunding campaign for Skylock, and is set to start shipping by Christmas 2014. The Skylock will retail for USD 249 but during the campaign will be offered for a discounted price of USD 159.
Skylock. Your Bicycle. Connected. from Jack Al-Kahwati on Vimeo.