Smart Home
Ring's new smart lock charges with a simple turn of the dial
Amazon's debut smart lock uses a kinetic dial charger to restore power when the battery dies, eliminating the need for backup keys or external batteries.
The Verge
Amazon has unveiled its first smart lock, which features an ingenious solution to a common problem: dead batteries that lock you out of your own home. Rather than relying on physical backup keys or requiring you to attach an external 9-volt battery pack, the new Ring Smart Lock integrates a charger directly into its thumb-turn dial.
How the kinetic charging works#
When the battery runs dry, a few rotations of the dial generate enough power to unlock the door and provide sufficient charge to fully restore the lock to working condition. This kinetic charging system removes the friction from battery emergencies—no hidden USB ports to search for, no external adapters to fumble with in the dark.
Access and control features#
The lock accommodates multiple users through either a built-in fingerprint reader or a backlit touchscreen keypad. Homeowners can set temporary access codes that expire automatically and define granular schedules controlling when each person can enter. Beyond physical methods, the Ring Smart Lock integrates with the Ring app and Alexa voice commands for remote unlock and monitoring—though no built-in camera means you'll need to pair it with a separate Ring doorbell or camera to see who's at the door.
Connectivity and installation#
The lock sidesteps the need for hardwired installation by using Amazon's Sidewalk network, a low-power mesh system that operates independently of home Wi-Fi. This approach means connectivity outages won't cut you off from granting emergency access or receiving entry alerts. Power comes from Ring's Quick Release Ultra Battery Pack, which users can swap out without professional help.
Pricing and availability#
The Ring Smart Lock will launch in early 2027 (pending FCC approval) in black, silver, and brass at $249. Alongside it, Amazon is rolling out an expanded lineup of security cameras featuring its "Retinal Vision 4K" standard: the Outdoor Cam 4K Plus at $149.99, Spotlight Cam 4K Plus at $199.99, and Floodlight Cam 4K Plus at $219.99. The company has also released an Indoor Cam 4K for $99.99 featuring a 115-degree view and privacy shutter, plus an entry-level Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam 2K for $69.99 with 360-degree rotation and motion-tracking capability.
