Boston Dynamics partners with Assa Abloy to let the dogs in

You’ve probably seen those door access panels before. | Image: Assa Abloy Assa Abloy, the major Swedish conglomerate that owns a whole lot of lock and security companies like Kwikset, Level lock, and the non-US version of Yale, is partnering with Boston Dynamics to build a new digital door access system that enables Boston Dynamics’ Spot robots autonomous entry into secured areas. The two intend to make it easier for companies to implement a robot security dog that can patrol buildings unfettered inside and outside. Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot has been equipped with digital access credentials that use Bluetooth to communicate with Assa Abloy’s HID-branded Signo readers, making it easy for the bots to pass through auto-opening doors. No need to tap a paw on the panel. Some companies like Asylon Robotics built their own custom Spot “DroneDog” (spotted at the Atlanta Falcons’ stadium) that can also enter secured areas. But Assa Abloy has one of the world’s largest install bases of door access systems already. Working closely with Boston Dynamics might mean a normalized future of robot patrol guards is coming faster than we think.