August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look
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This august home 1st generation smart lock review covers the original August Home model. It is a silver, interior-retrofit smart lock designed for home use. The device measures 2.21 by 3.26 by 3.26 inches and weighs one pound. It operates via a smartphone app on iOS or Android. This unit replaces the inside portion of your existing deadbolt. The outside face remains unchanged. It uses battery power to stay active. This design allows for keyless access without major hardware changes. You get total control over who enters your home.
What stands out
- Interior retrofit installation that leaves the exterior deadbolt face unchanged.
- Battery-powered operation ensures the lock stays active during power or Wi-Fi outages.
- Smartphone app control for iOS and Android devices to grant or revoke access.
- Compact silver design measuring 2.21 by 3.26 by 3.26 inches.
Who it fits
Good fit for
This lock suits homeowners who want to add smart access without replacing their entire deadbolt hardware. It is ideal for renters or those who prefer a DIY retrofit install. You will appreciate the battery operation if you live in an area with unreliable power. The app-based control works well for managing temporary access for guests or service providers. It is a practical choice if you already have a compatible deadbolt and want to upgrade to keyless entry using your existing smartphone.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need a lock that includes a built-in camera or video doorbell functionality. This model does not feature a keypad for manual code entry, so you must rely on your smartphone. It is also not suitable if you prefer a complete exterior hardware replacement rather than an interior retrofit. Since it is discontinued by the manufacturer, support for future software updates may be limited. If you require a standalone keyless entry system without a phone dependency, this is not the right fit.
Verdict: This is a straightforward interior retrofit lock that adds smartphone control to your existing deadbolt. It works best for users who prioritize battery reliability and easy installation over integrated cameras or keypads.
August Home 1st Gen Key Specs
Access Methods: Smartphone app
You unlock the door using your iOS or Android phone. The free August app creates keys and manages access. You control who enters and for how long. This method replaces physical keys for guests. When shopping, compare this to locks with keypads or fingerprint scanners. Smartphone access offers convenience but relies on your phone battery and connectivity.
Installation Type: Interior retrofit
This lock replaces only the interior part of your existing deadbolt. The exterior hardware remains unchanged. This allows for a DIY upgrade without drilling new holes in your door. It fits standard door preparations. When comparing, note that full replacements require more labor. This retrofit design simplifies the process for renters or homeowners avoiding major modifications.
Size: 2.21 x 3.26 x 3.26 inches
The device measures 2.21 inches in height and 3.26 inches in both width and length. These dimensions determine how well it fits behind your interior door panel. Larger units may interfere with door frames or adjacent hardware. When shopping, measure your current deadbolt interior space. This compact form factor ensures it does not protrude excessively into your home interior.
Weight: 1 pounds
The lock weighs one pound. This light weight suggests a plastic or light metal construction. It is easy to handle during installation. Heavier locks often feel more solid but may require stronger mounting screws. When comparing, consider if the weight impacts durability. This specific weight indicates a focus on ease of retrofitting rather than heavy-duty security reinforcement.
Design and Build Specs
According to the listing, the August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock features a silver finish. The device measures 2.21 by 3.26 by 3.26 inches. It weighs one pound. These dimensions apply to the interior unit that replaces your existing deadbolt’s inside portion. The outside of your door remains unchanged. This retrofit design means you keep your current exterior hardware. You only swap the interior mechanism. The compact size fits most standard residential doors. The lightweight build suggests easy handling during installation.
The lock operates via a smartphone app. You use iOS or Android devices to control access. The app creates digital keys and manages entry permissions. You decide who enters and for how long. This method replaces physical keys for guests. The device relies on battery power. This ensures it stays active even if your home loses electricity or Wi-Fi. The silver color matches common interior door hardware. The straightforward layout focuses on core security functions. You manage everything through the free August app. There are no physical buttons or keypads on the unit itself. All interactions happen on your phone. This design keeps the interior face clean and minimal. The specs prioritize digital control over manual inputs. You gain total access management without adding external components.
Setup and everyday use
Installation focuses on the interior side of your door. The device is an interior retrofit, meaning you replace only the inside part of your existing deadbolt. The outside hardware remains unchanged. This design allows for a DIY setup without altering your door’s exterior appearance. You do not need to remove the entire lock mechanism, which simplifies the process for many homeowners.
Once installed, the lock connects to the free August app. The app is available for both iOS and Android smartphones. You use the app to create digital keys and manage access permissions. You decide who gets entry and how long their access lasts. This control replaces physical keys for guests and service providers. You can grant temporary access that expires automatically.
The unit is powered by batteries. This power source ensures the lock stays active even if your home’s Wi-Fi or power goes down. You maintain access to your home during outages. Daily use involves unlocking the door with your smartphone. The app serves as your primary interface for checking the activity log and managing users. The silver finish blends with standard interior door hardware. The compact size, measuring 2.21 by 3.26 by 3.26 inches, fits most standard deadbolts. The one-pound weight keeps the interior unit manageable during installation.
Before You Buy August Home
You should note this model is discontinued by the manufacturer. Availability may be limited to remaining stock or third-party sellers. Since it relies on battery power, you must monitor battery levels regularly to ensure it stays active during outages. The device requires an iOS or Android smartphone to function. Verify your phone is compatible with the free August app before purchasing. You need an existing deadbolt on your door for the interior retrofit installation. The outside hardware stays unchanged, so you do not need to replace your exterior lock. This lock fits well if you already own an August video doorbell, as they share the same app ecosystem. If you prefer a standalone smart lock without app integration, consider other options in this guide. Keep spare batteries on hand for quick replacements. Check your door’s backset size to ensure the interior unit fits your existing deadbolt mechanism properly.
Check before you buy
- Confirm your smartphone runs iOS or Android for app access.
- Verify you have an existing deadbolt for the interior retrofit.
- Check that your door’s backset matches the lock’s requirements.
- Ensure you have spare batteries for ongoing maintenance.
- Decide if app integration suits your smart home setup.
The product at a glance
August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock
Best for: Retrofitting existing deadbolts with app access
- Access Methods
- Smartphone app
- Installation Type
- Interior retrofit
- Color
- Silver
- Application
- Home
- Dimensions
- 3.26 × 3.26 × 2.21 inches
- Weight
- 1 pounds
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The August Home 1st Generation Smart Lock is a silver, interior-retrofit device that replaces your existing deadbolt's inside mechanism. It measures 2.21 by 3.26 by 3.26 inches and weighs 1 pound. You control access via the free August app on iOS or Android. Battery power keeps it running during outages. It suits homeowners seeking a keyless entry solution that leaves the exterior unchanged.
Pros
- Interior retrofit installation preserves existing exterior hardware
- Battery powered for continuous operation during power or Wi-Fi loss
- App-based access control for iOS and Android devices
- Compact dimensions of 2.21 by 3.26 by 3.26 inches
Cons
- Discontinued by the manufacturer
- Requires smartphone app for access; no physical key option mentioned
- Limited to interior retrofit; exterior lock cylinder remains unchanged
Good fit if
- You want to keep your current exterior deadbolt design
- You prefer keyless entry managed through a mobile app
- You need a lock that stays active during power outages
Skip if
- You need a discontinued product with potential support issues
- You require a complete lock replacement rather than an interior retrofit
- You prefer physical key access over app-based control
Verdict: August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock is a compact, battery-powered retrofit for homeowners who want app-controlled access without changing their exterior door hardware. It fits users comfortable with smartphone management and accepting a discontinued model.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock |
|---|---|
| Access Methods | Smartphone app |
| Installation Type | Interior retrofit |
| Color | Silver |
| Application | Home |
| Dimensions | 3.26 × 3.26 × 2.21 inches |
| Weight | 1 pounds |
| Size | 2.21 x 3.26 x 3.26 inches |
| Model | ASL-1 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock require drilling new holes in my door?
No, it does not require new drilling. This device is an interior retrofit that replaces only the inside portion of your existing deadbolt mechanism. The exterior hardware remains unchanged, allowing you to keep your current door appearance while adding smart access features without major construction.
What are the physical dimensions of the August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock?
The unit measures 2.21 inches in height, 3.26 inches in width, and 3.26 inches in length. These compact dimensions allow it to fit inside most standard residential door frames. The device weighs one pound, making it a lightweight addition to your existing interior door setup.
How do I unlock the door without using a physical key?
You unlock the door using your iOS or Android smartphone via the free August app. The app creates digital keys and manages access permissions. You control who enters and for how long, effectively replacing physical keys for guests and eliminating the need to carry traditional metal keys.
Is the August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock suitable for renters?
Yes, it is well-suited for renters. Since it is an interior retrofit, you do not alter the exterior door hardware or the door itself. This allows you to upgrade your security without violating typical lease agreements that prohibit changing the outside lock cylinder or modifying the door structure.
What color options are available for the August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock?
The August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock is available in a silver finish. This color matches many common interior door styles and hardware sets. The silver design blends into most home decors while providing a modern look for your interior door setup without drawing unnecessary attention.
Can I use this smart lock with my existing deadbolt?
Yes, you can use it with your existing deadbolt. The device is designed to retrofit your current interior deadbolt mechanism. You simply replace the inside part of your existing lock with this smart unit, keeping your current exterior hardware intact while gaining app-controlled access and remote management capabilities.
What is the model number for the August Home 1st Gen Smart Lock?
The model number for this device is ASL-1. You can use this identifier when searching for replacement parts or technical support documentation. Knowing the specific model number helps ensure you are purchasing the correct accessories or consulting the right user manual for your specific hardware configuration.