Bluetooth Smart keyfob to lock your Mac or PC

Atama, developer and manufacturer of connected devices, has announced Sesame2, a Bluetooth Smart keyfob and companion application to lock your Mac or Windows PC.

Sesame2 increases both security and privacy, addressing the first rule of IT in the workplace “Lock your screen when you’re not at your desk.”

The device enables the user to lock their Mac/PC whenever he or she walks away from the computer, preventing anyone else from accessing files, programs, the email client or anything else that might be open on the desktop. When the user returns to their desk, their Mac or PC is automatically unlocked.

A second generation update of the original Sesame product successfully launched last year, Sesame2 boasts an external redesign in addition to further enhancements such as longer battery life, shorter locking distance when walking away and increased Bluetooth signal stability through the use of a Texas Instruments (TI) SimpleLink Bluetooth low energy CC2541 wireless MCU.

Using security devices that offer ease of use and implementation are vital, and this keyfob delivers this in one ready to go package which is of particular importance if you are required to meet the ISO 27001 for Information Security Standards.

If enhanced security is required or indeed additional workplace Information Security standards are to be met, the app and the keyfob can also support two-factor authentication (the combination of something the user knows, with something the user has), enabling the unlocking of a computer only through the combination of the system password and the close presence of the keyfob.

Thanks to the use of Bluetooth low energy technology, Sesame2 locks your Mac or Windows PC without draining your battery. “The first version of Sesame was adopted by customers working in various fields such as medical, legal, software development, design and music, without forgetting home users. These customers really engaged with us and submitted many feature requests, which led us to create Sesame2,” said Eric Ferraz, CEO of Atama. “Locking your computer while you’re away is something you shouldn’t need to worry about and Sesame2 completely removes the need to think about it.”

“Bluetooth low energy is perfect for small, battery-powered applications like the Sesame2,” said Oyvind Birkenes, general manager, Wireless Connectivity Solutions, TI. “We’re excited that Atama selected our easy to use SimpleLink CC2541 wireless MCU and our mature and stable Bluetooth low energy software stack to enhance the battery life and link stability of their second generation product.”

Pricing and availability

Sesame2 is available for pre-order now for USD49, £39.99 inc VAT, €49 inc VAT and is available now through atama.io.