ECKey and Southco Announce Bluetooth Access Controller Partnership

ECKey announced that it has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Southco, Inc.

ECKey’s Bluetooth readers allow any cell phone to be used as a key to control or unlock virtually any device. Since 2008, ECKey has offered its Bluetooth readers as an economical solution for access control, and in 2014, introduced VIZpin, its cloud-based key management service. With VIZpin, users can receive VIZpin keys either through a downloaded app or via text. VIZpin keys can authorize access 24/7 or only allow access for a preset amount of time, and are compatible with any Bluetooth device including cell phones, BlackBerry, Windows phones, Androids, iPhones and tablets.

ECKey and Southco will work together on all aspects of sales, marketing and manufacturing of ECKey’s Bluetooth readers. ECKey will continue to sell ECKey readers into traditional security applications through OEM partners, distributors and dealers. Southco will offer its own version of the Bluetooth reader to its customers, and will provide the opportunity to embed ECKey’s Bluetooth technology into Southco’s extensive line of electromechanical locks and latches.

“ECKey’s technology provides an economical wireless solution for remotely managing and monitoring access to our intelligent locking systems without the need for wiring into a network,” said Steve Spatig, general manager of Southco’s Electronic Access Solutions business unit.

Paul Bodell, president and CEO of ECKey said, “Our partnership with Southco provides us with access to extensive manufacturing expertise as well as an immediate presence in key end markets throughout the world that would have taken us years to develop on our own. We are very excited about what the relationship represents for near and long-term opportunity.”

Featured

  • AI to Help Resolve Non-Emergency Calls Across Utah and Decrease 911 Caller Wait Times

    The Utah Communications Authority (UCA), which oversees the state’s next generation 911 technology services, recently announced that public safety answering points (PSAPs) throughout the state plan to implement Motorola Solutions’ Virtual Response technology to automate the receipt and resolution of 10-digit non-emergency line calls in Utah with the help of AI. Read Now

  • Report: 2025 Video Surveillance Market Set to Grow After Small Decline in 2024

    Novaira Insights has unveiled its latest report, “World Market for Video Surveillance Hardware and Software – 2025 Edition.” The research indicates that the global market for video surveillance hardware and software experienced a slight decline of 0.3% in 2024. This performance fell short of previous forecasts, primarily due to a significant decrease of 7.8% in the Chinese market. Conversely, the rest of the world saw a growth of 4.9%. The global market for video surveillance equipment was estimated to be worth $25.0 billion in 2024. Read Now

  • Report Reveals Local Governments Face Surge in Ransomware Attacks with Minimal Resources

    KnowBe4, the cybersecurity platform that comprehensively addresses human risk management, recently released new research highlighting the critical cybersecurity challenges facing state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments. The report details how government organizations have become prime targets for cybercriminals while simultaneously facing severe resource constraints. Read Now

  • Video Surveillance Trends to Watch

    With more organizations adding newer capabilities to their surveillance systems, it’s always important to remember the “basics” of system configuration and deployment, as well as the topline benefits of continually emerging technologies like AI and the cloud. Read Now

  • New Report Reveals Top Trends Transforming Access Controller Technology

    Mercury Security, a provider in access control hardware and open platform solutions, has published its Trends in Access Controllers Report, based on a survey of over 450 security professionals across North America and Europe. The findings highlight the controller’s vital role in a physical access control system (PACS), where the device not only enforces access policies but also connects with readers to verify user credentials—ranging from ID badges to biometrics and mobile identities. With 72% of respondents identifying the controller as a critical or important factor in PACS design, the report underscores how the choice of controller platform has become a strategic decision for today’s security leaders. Read Now

New Products

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.