Houston getting Amazon Key program that allows delivery people to enter your home

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Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Amazon could deliver packages inside your door
Amazon could deliver packages inside your door. Rebecca Jarvis reports during Good Morning America on October 25, 2017.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Amazon Key, which allows delivery people to drop off items inside residences even without anyone home, is expanding to Houston.

The program is open to Amazon Prime members, and they are required to buy a $250 kit that includes a camera and a Wi-Fi-connected keypad lock.

Houston is listed among the eligible metropolitan areas for in-home delivery under the program.

According to the online retailer, shoppers will then be able to select in-home delivery on the Amazon app. When the delivery person shows up, they will knock first, scan the package and Amazon will make sure the delivery person is at the right home and unlock the door. No codes are needed and the indoor camera will record the in-home delivery.

The company said its in-home delivery service is covered by the Amazon Key Happiness Guarantee, which covers delivery issues, property damage or theft. And Amazon said the deliveries are carried out by drivers who are vetted with background checks and driving record reviews.

The company also said the smart lock can also be used to let in housekeepers to scrub the kitchen, dog walkers to take your furry friend for a walk or out-of-town guests who want to make themselves at home.

SEE ALSO: Walmart wants to walk in and stock your fridge

Walmart is testing a new service that lets a delivery person walk into your home when you're not there to drop off packages.

Walmart is testing a similar service in California's Silicon Valley, which lets delivery people drop off packages or stock the fridge with groceries bought from Walmart.com. The delivery person is given a one-time code to open the door and Walmart said customers will get an alert on their smartphones when someone enters.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

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