UPDATE: The handyman just got handier. KeyMe, the company that brought New Yorkers outstandingly convenient key-making kiosks, has taken it to a whole other level with a brand new mobile application.
KeyMe's iOS app — now available in the iTunes App store— allows users to take a digital snapshot of their keys to store in the cloud. In the event of a lockout, users can have a duplicate key created by any locksmith based on the digital snapshot and accompanying instructions. Cool, right?!
All of this is part of KeyMe's continued effort to make frustrating lockouts a thing of the past. Need a duplicate set of keys made? Need to send your digital key with a visiting friend you don't have the time to meet up with? Yup, there's an app for that.
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New Yorkers get locked out of their apartments approximately three million times a year. That's three million calls to coordinate with roommates and supers. Or, even worse, three million expensive lock changes. Thankfully, KeyMe, has found a solution that's easy and affordable. This article was originally published on June 27, 2013.KeyMe's five, self-service kiosks, located in 7-Eleven stores around Manhattan, provide users with 24-hour access to their keys. Create an on-the-spot duplicate key in under a minute or store a digital copy of your key that can be accessed when you're locked out.
After storing a digital copy of your key for free, you'll never have to worry about being stranded again. Simply log in at any KeyMe kiosk — fingerprint authentication and multiple additional security measures are employed for safety, and you'll never have to provide an address or location information — and you'll be home sweet home in no time.
Creating a key from a digital copy costs $19.99, while creating a duplicate costs $3.49 for a basic brass key and $5.99 for a decorative key. Indeed, the KeyMe kiosks offer decorative keys that have sports themes and even, get this, open bottles. The first two kiosks are already active in 7-Eleven stores at 1594 York Avenue (at 84th Street) and 224 Fifth Avenue (between 27th and 28th streets). Another three will be installed around the city this week.
Photo: Courtesy of KeyMe.