How to Fix a Failed August Smart Lock Firmware Update
Firmware updates are essential for your August Smart Lock. They deliver the latest security protocols, improve performance, and can even enhance battery life. When an update fails, it can be concerning, but the issue is almost always resolvable. This guide provides a professional, step-by-step process to help you troubleshoot and complete the update successfully.
Key Factors for a Successful August Firmware Update
The update process for an August lock is unique because it relies on a direct connection with your phone. Understanding the requirements is key to success.
- Bluetooth Proximity: The firmware file is transferred from your smartphone to the lock via Bluetooth. You must remain physically close to the lock for the entire process.
- Sufficient Battery Power: The update will not initiate if the lock's batteries are low. This is a safety measure to prevent the lock from losing power in the middle of the update.
- Stable Phone Connection: The August app on your phone manages the update, so your phone needs a stable connection and should not be interrupted.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for a Failed Update
If you've encountered the 'Update Failed' notification, follow these steps in order.
1. Check Your Lock's Batteries
This is the most common reason for an update failing to start or complete.
- Check Battery Level in the App: The August app will show you the current battery status.
- Install Fresh Batteries: If the batteries are anything less than 'Good', we strongly recommend installing a brand new set of recommended CR123 batteries. This is the single most effective step you can take to ensure a smooth update.
2. Prepare Your Phone and Environment
Create the ideal environment for the Bluetooth data transfer.
- Stay Close: Position yourself and your phone within 5-10 feet (about 3 metres) of the August Smart Lock. Do not walk away during the update.
- Keep the App Open: Bring the August app to the foreground on your phone. Do not switch to other apps or let your phone's screen lock.
- Restart Your Phone: A quick reboot of your smartphone (turning it off and on again) can clear any temporary bugs with its Bluetooth radio, ensuring a more stable connection to the lock.
3. Power Cycle the Smart Lock
If the lock is unresponsive or the update fails repeatedly, rebooting its internal processor can help.
- Slide open the battery cover on your August Smart Lock.
- Remove one battery.
- Wait for 10 seconds.
- Re-insert the battery.
- You should see the lock's LED flash or hear a small beep, indicating it has rebooted.
After rebooting both your phone and the lock, open the app and attempt the firmware update again.
4. Check the August Connect (If Applicable)
While the firmware is delivered via Bluetooth from your phone, a healthy connection to the August Connect Wi-Fi bridge is also important for the overall system health. Ensure your Connect is plugged in, online, and has a strong signal to both your lock and your Wi-Fi router.
When to Contact Support
If you have replaced the batteries with a fresh set and have followed all the steps above multiple times but the update still fails, it is time to contact August Support. They can perform remote diagnostics and provide more advanced assistance. Be prepared to tell them the model of your lock and the troubleshooting steps you have already completed.