Ring’s First Smart Lock Adds A Hand-crank Power Backup
Ring’s $249 smart lock can generate enough power to open a door when its battery dies, with a US launch planned for early 2027.
Ring has unveiled its first smart lock, built around a backup power feature intended to prevent a dead battery from leaving someone locked out. Turning a dial on the outside of the lock generates enough electricity to operate it briefly, without a physical backup key. The $249 Ring Smart Lock is expected to reach the US in early 2027, subject to FCC authorization, according to The Verge and TechCrunch.
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How the backup works
Engadget reports that turning the lock’s front dial back and forth three or four times powers a small motor and charges a supercapacitor. That provides about 30 seconds of normal operation—enough time to use the fingerprint reader, keypad, Ring app or Alexa, according to the outlet. The Verge says Amazon describes the required effort less precisely as “a few” turns.
Ring founder Jamie Siminoff told TechCrunch that the idea grew out of his concern about putting a battery-powered lock on a vacation home used infrequently. Once inside, a user can remove and recharge the battery pack. Siminoff said the battery should last about a year and that the Ring app will notify users when it needs charging.
Access, installation and connectivity
Besides the fingerprint reader, the lock has a backlit touchscreen keypad and supports access through the Ring app and Alexa. The Verge reports that owners can register multiple users, schedule access and issue temporary codes that expire. TechCrunch says the app can also manage access for people who visit periodically, such as dog walkers or cleaners.
The lock fits a standard single-cylinder deadbolt and requires no additional wiring, according to Engadget and TechCrunch. It will come in black, silver and brass. The Verge reports that it uses Amazon’s Sidewalk network rather than a home Wi-Fi connection; remote alerts and access during a Wi-Fi outage would depend on adequate Sidewalk coverage.
Other Ring devices announced
Ring also announced new security cameras. Engadget and The Verge identify four 4K models—the Outdoor Cam 4K Plus, Spotlight Cam 4K Plus, Floodlight Cam 4K Plus and Indoor Cam 4K—alongside a separate Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam 2K. TechCrunch instead describes the fourth 4K model as a pan-tilt Indoor Cam 4K. The Verge says the Indoor Cam 4K and Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam 2K are available for purchase now, while the three outdoor 4K models are available for preorder.
Sources
This story was compiled by AI from the reports below. Read the originals for the full details.