HomeKit does indeed make the August Smart Lock more useful

For those not in the know (this won't be many of you), HomeKit is a home automation framework created by Apple that developers can use to send data across applications and devices. It means that information from your thermostat, light switches, lightbulbs, blinds, locks and other smart-home devices can be shared using a common standard and with approved security practices. For now, the only way to interact with HomeKit is through Siri, but rumors suggest that the system may soon be getting a dedicated app. In the case of the Smart Lock, upgrading to HomeKit actually means buying a new device; the hardware differs slightly from the original model introduced two years ago. Thanks to HomeKit, one can control the August Smart Lock by speaking to the phone and saying things like "Close the door" or "Is the back door open?" and have it react accordingly.