As CES wraps up, we were wowed by incredible tech from vacuums that could climb stairs to terrifyingly fast and realistic robots. But how did home security tech fare?
I discovered a variety of new security inventions and tech evolutions I never expected (plus a big dose of AI). My favorites were innovative, affordable products that meet us right where we are in homes and rentals. That includes cute owl cams, major releases from Ikea and brilliant smart lock technology. Let's dive in to the most impressive examples.
Wireless charging comes to our smart locks
Both the V7 Max and Veno Pro feature AuraCharge wireless charging and come at dramatically different price points. Ajay Kumar/CNET
My favorite standout technology for smart locks at CES this year was wireless charging. Being able to charge your smart lock battery automatically, without needing to remove a battery pack or replace AA batteries every few months, is a huge step forward. The most annoying part of a smart lock is if batteries fail while you're away (though there are emergency backup options when that happens).
Desloc arrived with a fully integrated solar panel on the front of its V150 Plus lock. Front doors tend to be pretty shady, but Desloc reports that its lock can judge ambient light and alter its power consumption and other factors to keep the 10,000-mAh battery as charged as possible. If true, that would be a significant advance for solar-charging home batteries.
Security brand Lockin offered two wireless charging options at CES. One of its locks, the Aeon, also features a built-in solar panel designed to operate even in overcast skies. However, more interesting was the AuraCharge technology that powered its other locks. AuraCharge uses a separate base station that continuously beams energy to the smart lock. (Lockin assured us it was safe for our eyes and other sensitive parts.)
I'm not sure how solar charging or AuraCharge will work in practice. These technologies depend heavily on their usability in the real world. But for now, wireless charging is the tech to watch for all things lock-related.
Ikea steps up with its first line of sensors
Ikea's security sensors are highly affordable. Ajay Kumar/CNET
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