GE Security has announced availability of a new version of its wireless eKEY that will enable full lockbox functionality for BlackBerry smartphones from Research In Motion (RIM). The eKEY Basic version is expected to be available for BlackBerry by mid-December 2008. eKEY Professional is expected to be launched in spring 2009. Both eKEY Basic and eKEY Professional editions will allow real estate agents to access, manage and search listed properties using BlackBerry smart phones.
“The device works great right out of the box and is very easy to set up and use immediately. It is incredibly stable, reliable and convenient,” said beta tester, Padraic Ansbro, a Realtor with Keller Williams in Portland, Oregon. “All the other alternatives are larger and bulkier to use. Before switching, I was so bogged down with gadgets that it was like wearing Batman’s utility belt. Simpler is definitely better.”
“We are excited about the new BlackBerry eKEY solution. We know that many of our customers are BlackBerry users and this is a great way to help them further increase productivity,” said Ron Virden, general manager, GE Security’s key control business. “Mobile technology is a very important tool in today’s challenging marketplace and the BlackBerry eKEY can provide real estate professionals with a distinct competitive advantage.”
eKEY Basic allows agents to open lockboxes, receive real-time showing notifications and view showing reports using their GE Security Supra-certified BlackBerry smart phones.
Three popular Blackberry smartphones will initially be certified by GE Security as compatible with its eKey for Blackberry solution. These include the Blackberry Curve, Blackberry Pearl and Blackberry 8800. Additional smartphones scheduled for release will be tested for certification by GE Security. For up to date information on eKey-compatible smartphones, visit www.supraekey.com and click on “Certified eKey Devices.”
