LAKE FOREST, Calif. – January 07, 2013 – Understanding consumer demand for new convenience based access control technology and broad consumer adoption of smartphones, Kwikset® has entered into a strategic partnership with UniKey Technologies, Inc (UniKey). This collaboration will allow Kwikset to offer hands-free access control technology enabled by a smartphone, further demonstrating Kwikset’s commitment to deliver innovative products that provide convenient solutions to homeowners’ busy lifestyles. 

“Kwikset continues to invest in ideas that will deliver first to market technology to accommodate homeowners’ hectic lives,” said Keith Brandon, director, sales and marketing, Residential Access Solutions. “The addition of UniKey based technology to our residential access offerings will provide the ultimate level of convenience to the stresses of day-to-day activities.”

With consumer habits shifting, Kwikset looks toward 2013 focused on delivering technology that caters to providing smart and simple options to homeowners. Understanding that nearly six out of ten U.S consumers use smartphones, Kwikset continues to develop creative solutions that align with their daily needs. Partnerships with innovators like UniKey moving forward will further Kwikset’s leadership in new technology introductions. 

“Being able to securely gain access by simply touching your lock with the smartphone in your pocket, acting as your key, is a simple yet significant advancement,” said Phil Dumas, President, UniKey Technologies. “With Kwikset as our partner, UniKey can be a part of bringing this revolutionary technology to the masses.” 

Kwikset has consistently been the category-leader in smart, simple technology developments that provide at home convenience to homeowners. Its Home Connect technology enables remote locking as well as the ability for the lock to connect wirelessly with other items in the home, such as the security system, lighting, and thermostat. Additionally, Kwikset offers SmartKey® re-key technology that allows for re-keying in seconds without removing the lock from the door. The new partnership with UniKey adds to this suite of technical innovations propelling Kwikset into the world of hands-free access control and beyond.

For more information on the partnership and technology offerings, please call Stephanie Sones at (213) 289-9190.

About the Hardware and Home Improvement Group

The Hardware and Home Improvement Group (HHI) develops, manufactures, markets and sells builders’ hardware, residential and commercial door hardware, kitchen and bath faucets, shower systems and bath accessories under the Stanley®, National Hardware®, Kwikset®, Weiser ®, Baldwin ®, Fanal®, EZSET® and Pfister® brands. Headquartered in Orange County, Calif., HHI has a global sales force and operates manufacturing and distribution facilities in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Asia. 

About Spectrum Brand Holdings

Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc., a member of the Russell 2000 Index, is a global and diversified consumer products company and a leading supplier of batteries, shaving and grooming products, personal care products, small household appliances, specialty pet supplies, lawn & garden and home pest control products, personal insect repellents and portable lighting. Helping to meet the needs of consumers worldwide, the Company offers a broad portfolio of market-leading, well-known and widely trusted brands including Rayovac®, Remington®, Varta®, George Foreman®, Black & Decker®, Toastmaster®, Farberware®, Tetra®, Marineland®, Nature’s Miracle®, Dingo®, 8-in-1®, FURminator®, Littermaid®, Spectracide®, Cutter®, Repel®, Hot Shot® and Black Flag®. Spectrum Brands Holdings' products are sold by the world's top 25 retailers and are available in more than one million stores in approximately 140 countries. Spectrum Brands Holdings generated net sales of approximately $3.25 billion in fiscal 2012. For more information, visit www.spectrumbrands.com. 

About UniKey

UniKey Technologies Inc. (UniKey) is an alternative access control company revolutionizing the way you gain access to all things. By uniquely combining existing technologies, UniKey has developed a proprietary and patented “hands free” Passive Keyless Entry system that can be easily integrated into any access control system to replace keys, codes, and passwords. Led by an experienced team with a deep understanding of advanced access control technology, the team has a history of delivering several products into the alternative access control mass market. For more information visit www.unikey.com.