Amazon Will Deliver Packages Straight Into Living Room

Amazon is going to start delivering packages not just to doorsteps, but inside homes as well, according to Bloomberg.

The new service, called Amazon Key, incorporates a smart lock fitted to a customer’s door, as well as a new Amazon security camera to record the movements of the delivery person. Amazon will also sell its Cloud Cam as a standalone piece of hardware, moving the e-commerce giant into the home security market and setting it up to compete with traditional players including Netgear as well as newer entrants like Alphabet’s Nest Labs.

Doors will only be opened for delivery if the relevant driver is verified by Amazon’s system, and the driver is never given keys or codes to unlock doors manually. The service is a perk available exclusively to Amazon’s premium Prime subscription users, and starts at $250. The In-Home Kit includes an Amazon Cloud Cam and one of several smart locks made by Yale and Kwikset.

Amazon Key will be available in 37 U.S. cities from Nov. 8. Amazon will also offer free installation of the kits. The Cloud Cam, will additionally be sold as a standalone device for $120. Much like Google’s Nest Cam, it allows for remote monitoring of homes, two-way communication and web-based video recording.

Amazon Key also opens the door to future integration with in-home service providers, such as cleaners and pet sitters, in the coming months. The company intends to give homeowners the ability to let third parties enter, conduct their business, and depart with the house fastened up securely. While the work is taking place, the customer can track and talk to the hired hands using Amazon’s Cloud Cam.

Friends and family will also be permitted into people’s homes. Using Amazon’s Key app, a pre-authorized person can be allowed in while the owner retains control over the frequency of entrances and the lengths of their stay.