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I actually implemented this idea using Twilio almost a year ago and have been using it actively ever since. I give my close friends 4-digit PIN numbers to my c
by caryme 16y ago
I actually implemented this idea using Twilio almost a year ago and have been using it actively ever since. I give my close friends 4-digit PIN numbers to my condo. When someone dials my number in the directory, it first prompts them for a PIN. If they enter a valid PIN, it welcomes them by name (my friends love this) and unlocks the door. If they enter an invalid PIN or no PIN, Twilio rings my and both my roommates' cell phones and connects to whomever answers first.
I also can create one-time-use PINs and one-day-only PINs for parties or whatnot.
As an extra plus, I used to have a home phone because my intercom requires local phone numbers. Since I built my "doorman," I don't need it.
- TimothyBurgess 16y agoAny particular reason you haven't turned this into a startup?
- krmmalik 16y agoI was going to ask the same question
- caryme 16y agoMostly time at this point, but I also wasn't sure if there would be interest. I should have some more free time this spring... maybe I'll work to get an MVP out then? I'll let y'all know.
- tastybites 16y agoI would buy it! You could charge per-usage too, since most people don't have an unlimited stream of people coming to their apartment every month. I'm not sure how the phone # allocation works but I imagine the biggest challenge is getting local #'s for people who don't have google voice or whatnot.
- gkoberger 16y agoI applied to YC with this exact idea, and didn't get in. Of course, there are a lot of factors- but I guess it was an idea they didn't love. http://www.getdoorman.com/ http://www.getdoorman.com/ (Not really coming soon anymore :) )