AGL has announced it will be making a $US10 million strategic investment in US-based August Home, which manufactures smart locks and smart home access products and services.

AGL executive general manager of new energy Elisabeth Brinton says the investment is part of a broader innovation strategy that will enable insight and access to new connected home technology.

“Our investment provides us with an opportunity to participate in, learn and help shape the emergence of this new, exciting technology and bring it to Australian consumers,” says Elisabeth.

“We see August Home as the front door of the connected home. It can help consumers improve their lifestyle, provide convenience and in-home security by enabling them to monitor what’s happening at their front door and manage access to their homes, all controlled via their smart phones no matter where they are.”

The August Home offering includes August Smart Lock, August Smart Keypad and August Doorbell Cam, which are all focused on giving consumers greater control of their home.

“AGL has a proven track-record of leading change and innovation, making them a great partner as we advance our mission of helping people control access to their homes, enabling secure delivery of goods and services inside the home,” says August Home chief executive Jason Johnson.

August Home helps to make customer’s lives more simple and secure. For example, the  August Smart Lock turns a smart phone into a smart key where consumers can lock and unlock their door remotely, create virtual keys for guests and keep track of who comes and goes with a 24/7 activity log.

“We know the connected home is a major area of interest for our customers and we’re focused on how we can give our customers greater control of their energy management. As we continue to innovate, we’re thinking of the home as a whole ecosystem – connected by smart technology.  For us, this is just the beginning,” says Elisabeth.