Saint Paul Getting Amazon Service That Will Let Delivery People Enter Homes

SAINT PAUL, MN– Do you value Amazon purchases so much that you would let a delivery person into your home when you aren’t there? Amazon believes you do.

The Minneapolis-Saint Paul area will be among the initial metropolitan regions where Amazon Key will be available beginning Nov. 8. The service, available to Prime members, would enable an Amazon courier to enter your residence to drop off packages. Here’s how Amazon says the service will work:

• You purchase an Amazon cloud camera and compatible smart lock for $249.99.

• You make an Amazon purchase and authorize free indoor delivery at checkout.

• On delivery day, you’ll get an “arriving now” notification so you can optionally watch the delivery live. The courier will request to unlock your door with a handheld scanner. Amazon verifies the package is meant for your address, turns on the cloud cam and unlocks your door. The driver will place the delivery just inside the door and request to relock it.
• Once the delivery is completed and the door is relocked, you’ll get a final notification and can watch a video clip of the delivery.

Amazon says the service will enable people to schedule permanent access for family members or give temporary access to people such as house cleaners or out-of-town friends or family members. The homeowner will be notified any time the door is unlocked or locked.
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