UniKey
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Access control, Technology |
| Founded | 1 January 2010 in Florida, United States |
| Founder | Phil Dumas |
| Headquarters | United States |
| Products | Kēvo (Bluetooth-enabled deadbolt lock) |
UniKey Technologies is an American firm specializing in alternative access control solutions, focusing on the global design and licensing of keyless entry innovations. Its premier offering, created in collaboration with Kwikset, is Kēvo, a deadbolt lock equipped with Bluetooth technology.
History
Established in Florida in 2010 by Phil Dumas, UniKey centers its efforts on smartphone-driven locking mechanisms as a substitute for conventional keys. Prior to this, Dumas was involved with SmartScan, a fingerprint-activated deadbolt that he deemed unreliable, which led him to pursue smartphone-based access systems.
In May 2012, Dumas and UniKey featured on ABC's Shark Tank. Although they received several investment proposals, no agreement was reached.
Kēvo Lock
Introduced in 2013, Kēvo was the pioneering smart lock utilizing Bluetooth and touch-to-open functionality. It recognizes compatible smartphones or tablets through an application to secure or release door locks. The deadbolt identifies when an authorized device is within proximity by emitting a low-energy Bluetooth signal, enabling unlocking simply by touching the lock surface—without requiring direct phone interaction. Users can provide either unlimited or time-limited access permissions to additional devices. Included with Kēvo is a keychain fob that mirrors the touch-to-open capability of authorized smartphones. The system can discern whether the verified device is inside or outside the premises, thereby preventing unauthorized unlocking attempts from outside when an authorized device is present indoors.
Partnerships
In June 2014, UniKey formed a collaboration with MIWA Lock Company to introduce keyless entry solutions tailored for hotels. UniKey engineered a passive touch-to-open keyless system integrated into MIWA’s existing RFID-based hospitality locks. Upon check-in, guests receive their room credentials via a smartphone app, allowing their mobile device to function as a digital key.