Ring's New Smart Lock Never Locks You Out, Even With Dead Battery

Ring just announced its first smart lock, and it solves a common fear: getting locked out when the battery dies. The lock has a hand-crank dial on the outside that generates electricity when you turn it. So if the battery is dead, you just turn the dial until the keypad lights up, then enter your PIN or scan your fingerprint. No backup key needed. It's like a built-in emergency charger for your door.

This lock gives you four ways to unlock: fingerprint, PIN code (including temporary codes for guests), the Ring app, and Alexa voice commands. The battery pack is removable, so you can recharge it indoors instead of buying new batteries. Ring says it will launch in early 2027 in black, silver, and brass for $250. You can sign up to be notified when it's available.

The biggest benefit is for families. If your kid comes home from school and the lock is dead, they can crank it and get inside without waiting for you. It's also great for renters or anyone who hates carrying keys. Other smart locks require a 9V battery or a USB-C cable, which you might not have on hand. This one is self-contained.

We still don't know battery life, how many turns the dial needs, or if it works with Matter (a smart home standard). But the idea is promising. If you've ever been locked out by a dead smart lock, this could be the fix. Just remember it's not out yet, so you'll have to wait until 2027.