Amazon unveiled a new Ring Smart Lock that can generate power by turning its thumb‑turn dial, a feature designed to eliminate the need for a physical backup key when the rechargeable battery runs out. Unlike many competing models that rely on hidden USB ports or metal contacts to attach a 9‑volt battery, Ring’s design incorporates a kinetic charger directly into the dial. Amazon did not disclose the exact number of rotations required, but the company says that turning the dial “a few times” produces enough electricity to unlock the door and begin recharging the internal battery.
Design and Power Solution
The lock is slated for release in the United States in early 2027, pending FCC approval, and will be offered in black, silver and brass finishes at a price of $249. It uses Ring’s replaceable Quick Release Ultra Battery Pack, meaning installation does not involve any wiring. The kinetic charging mechanism is intended to provide a fallback when the battery is unexpectedly depleted, allowing homeowners to regain entry without digging for a spare key.
Features and Connectivity
Ring Smart Lock supports multiple unlocking methods, including a fingerprint reader and a backlit touchscreen keypad. Users can register several individuals, set schedules for when each person may access the home, and create temporary access codes that automatically expire after a predetermined period. The lock can also be controlled remotely through the Ring mobile app, and voice commands are supported on Alexa‑compatible devices such as Echo smart speakers.
Connectivity does not depend on a home Wi‑Fi network. Instead, the lock communicates over Amazon’s Sidewalk network, a low‑power, low‑bandwidth, long‑range protocol. Provided the residence falls within Sidewalk coverage, the lock should continue to send alerts and allow remote access even during Wi‑Fi outages.
Related Ring Camera Offerings
The smart lock does not include an integrated camera, so users who want visual verification will need to pair it with a Ring video doorbell or one of the company’s newer security cameras. Amazon announced a lineup of “Retinal Vision 4K” cameras, including an Outdoor Cam 4K Plus available for preorder at $149.99 in battery, wired, solar or PoE versions; a Spotlight Cam 4K Plus priced at $199.99 with a 550‑lumen deterrent light; and a Floodlight Cam 4K Plus for $219.99 that offers wide‑area illumination, 24/7 recording and smart subject detection. An indoor 4K camera is already on sale for $99.99, featuring a 115‑degree field of view and a physical privacy shutter that blocks the lens when closed.
In addition to the 4K models, Ring introduced an entry‑level 2K indoor camera priced at $69.99. The Ring Pan‑Tilt Indoor Cam 2K uses computer‑vision‑based motion detection, can rotate a full 360 degrees while tilting 175 degrees, and also incorporates a privacy shutter that disables both camera and microphone when engaged.
Overall, the Ring Smart Lock aims to address a common pain point for smart‑home users—battery failure—by turning a routine mechanical action into a source of power, while bundling a suite of authentication options and leveraging Amazon’s Sidewalk network for reliable connectivity.
Steve Lopez is a Senior Editorial Columnist and Health & Public Policy reporter for News Raise. Steve focuses on healthcare advancements, medical technologies, and public health policies.
