Unlocking the Full Potential of Your August Smart Lock
The August Smart Lock is designed to make your life easier with intelligent features like Auto-Unlock, DoorSense™, and remote access. However, if you find that some of these functionalities are not working or are unavailable, it can be a source of confusion. This guide is here to help you troubleshoot the common reasons behind limited features and restore your smart lock to its full capabilities.
Often, the solution is simple, involving a settings adjustment, a recalibration, or understanding the role of key accessories like the August Connect Wi--Fi Bridge.
Why Are Some August Features Not Working?
Several factors can contribute to features being limited or disabled. The most common culprits include:
- Missing Wi-Fi Bridge: Core remote features require the August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge to link your Bluetooth-enabled lock to your home's Wi-Fi network.
- Incorrect App Permissions: The August app needs specific permissions on your smartphone (like location and Bluetooth) to operate features like Auto-Unlock.
- Calibration Issues: Features like DoorSense™ and Auto-Lock rely on correct initial setup and calibration to function accurately.
- Outdated Firmware or App: Running older versions can lead to compatibility problems and bugs.
Troubleshooting Guide for August Limited Features
Let's work through the solutions to get your smart lock's features running smoothly.
Step 1: Install and Configure the August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge
This is the most common reason for missing remote features. Without the Connect bridge, your lock only communicates via Bluetooth, meaning you must be within physical proximity (a few metres) to control it.
Features that require the August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge:
- Locking and unlocking your door from anywhere.
- Receiving instant notifications about lock activity.
- Integrating with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.
- Providing remote access to guests.
If you don't have a bridge, you will need to purchase one and set it up through the August app to enable these capabilities.
Step 2: Check Smartphone and App Permissions
Features like Auto-Unlock are heavily dependent on your phone's settings.
- Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: Ensure both are turned on in your phone's settings. Auto-Unlock uses a combination of these to detect when you're approaching home.
- Grant Location Permissions: The August app requires "Always On" location access to determine when you have left your neighbourhood and when you are returning. Check this in your phone's app settings for the August app.
- Disable Aggressive Battery Savers: Some phone manufacturers have battery optimisation modes that can shut down background apps like August. Make sure the August app is whitelisted or exempted from these battery-saving features.
Step 3: Recalibrate Your Lock and DoorSense™
If your lock isn't behaving as expected, a simple recalibration can often resolve the issue.
- Recalibrate the Lock: In the August app, go to Lock Settings and select your lock. You will find an option to "Calibrate Lock". Follow the on-screen prompts.
- Recalibrate DoorSense™: DoorSense™ tells you if your door is physically open or closed. If it's giving false readings, navigate to Lock Settings > DoorSense™ and run the recalibration process. This ensures that features like Auto-Lock only engage when the door is properly shut.
Step 4: Update Firmware and the August App
Running the latest software ensures you have all the newest features and bug fixes.
- App Update: Visit the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) to check for updates to the August app.
- Firmware Update: The app will typically notify you if a firmware update is available for your lock. You can check manually by going into Lock Settings. Ensure your phone is close to the lock with Bluetooth enabled to perform the update.
Step 5: Review Smart Alert Settings
If you are not receiving notifications, check your Smart Alert settings within the app.
- Go to the lock screen in the August app.
- Tap the Settings gear icon.
- Select "Notifications" or "Smart Alerts".
- Customise which alerts you want to receive, such as when the door is manually unlocked, locked by a specific user, or left ajar.
By methodically checking these common issues, you can restore the full suite of features to your August Smart Lock and enjoy the convenience and security it offers.