GoKawiilRing unveils first smart lock with hand-cranked power backup instead of a key slot
Ring has announced its first smart lock, which can be unlocked via fingerprint scanning, a PIN pad, the Ring app, or Alexa voice commands. If the battery dies, users can manually turn an external dial to generate enough electricity to power the pad and unlock the door, rather than relying on a physical key. The lock uses a removable Quick Release Ultra battery pack that can be recharged indoors.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Dead batteries have long been a practical weak point for smart locks, often forcing owners to keep a backup physical key. Ring's hand-crank solution could reduce that failure risk, though ZDNET notes it remains unproven whether this method is as dependable as a traditional key in an emergency. The launch also extends Ring's push to build out its ecosystem beyond cameras and doorbells into core home-access hardware.
- Ring's first smart lock includes a manual-crank dial to generate power if the battery dies.
- It supports four unlock methods: fingerprint, PIN, Ring app, and Alexa.
- The lock's battery pack is removable and rechargeable, aiming to eliminate reliance on a backup physical key.
Ring Smart Lock — This is the exact device the article describes, featuring a clever hand-crank energy dial so you're never locked out even if the battery dies. It also supports PIN codes, fingerprint scanning, Alexa voice commands, and the Ring app, making it a versatile upgrade for anyone already in the Ring ecosystem.
See Ring Smart Lock on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: zdnet.com — Maria Diaz, 2026-10-10
Published there as: “Ring’s new smart lock has a manual fallback that can’t lock you out – how it works”
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