One common drawback of smart locks is their reliance on batteries that eventually deplete. At CES, Lockin, a company specializing in biometric vein authentication for locks, unveiled its latest product. This device powers itself wirelessly through an infrared optical beam effective up to four meters away. An indoor unit plugged into a regular wall socket emits the beam toward the lock, where a compact receiver panel converts the light energy into electricity, resembling a controlled light source mimicking solar power on a small scale. The system has received safety approvals from two separate agencies, ensuring it poses no risk to eyes or people crossing the beam's path, although charging halts if the beam is blocked.
This model functions as a mortise-style lock, which typically demands professional installation rather than serving as a simple deadbolt substitute. Beyond its installation needs, it stands out with integrated video recording, built-in speakers, artificial intelligence for identification, a touchscreen interface, and vein-scanning technology.
In its physical form, the device appears as an elegant yet imposing tall black panel, featuring an ergonomic handle-like indentation and a generously sized screen on the inside surface. The exterior side includes a touch-sensitive display and dual cameras, enabling its role as a video doorbell. Access to the door can be granted through palm scanning, finger vein patterns, or three-dimensional face detection.
The unit streams its video feed to leading smart home platforms from companies like Google, Apple, Amazon, and Samsung. However, for initial configuration and sophisticated AI functions—such as detecting arriving packages and delivering pre-recorded messages to couriers—users must rely on the dedicated Lockin mobile application.
Given its comprehensive capabilities, this premium all-in-one lock is expected to command a high price, which has not yet been announced, with availability slated for July or August this year. A more affordable variant offers identical wireless power transfer but omits the video components, priced at $350 and set for release in April.