Full Breakdown
Ring Introduces First Smart Lock with Hand-Crank Power Backup
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Ring Smart Lock Unveiled with Emergency Power Dial
Ring, the Amazon-owned home-security brand, announced its inaugural smart lock with a built-in power dial that can generate enough electricity to operate the lock when its rechargeable battery is depleted. The lock fits a standard single-cylinder deadbolt, requires no wiring, and will be sold in the United States in the first quarter of 2027, pending FCC authorization.
Background & Context: Battery Anxiety in Smart Locks
Smart locks rely on batteries, and a dead battery can lock a homeowner out. Ring’s founder Jamie Siminoff called this “smart lock anxiety,” prompting a mechanical backup that eliminates the need for a spare key or external charger.
Data & Statistics
- Price: $249 (announced).
- Finishes: Black, silver, brass.
- Power dial output: Roughly three volts, providing 10–30 seconds of operation—enough for the fingerprint reader, keypad, Ring app, or Alexa voice command.
- Battery life: Removable Quick Release Ultra Battery Pack rated for about one year; the Ring app alerts users when recharging is needed.
- Connectivity: Remote functions run over Amazon Sidewalk, a low-power network independent of home Wi-Fi. Sidewalk coverage is limited to the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
- Access methods: Fingerprint reader, backlit touchscreen keypad, Ring mobile app, Alexa voice control.
- Installation: Designed for a standard single-cylinder deadbolt; no wiring required.
Official Statements & Responses
Siminoff said the power dial addresses the “huge limiter” of battery failure, noting that hidden physical keys are “medieval.” He emphasized that the crank is a rare fallback rather than a routine charging method. Ring disclosed that the product cannot be sold or leased in the United States until FCC clearance is obtained, and that remote features depend on Sidewalk connectivity, which may not be available in all neighborhoods.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact duration of power provided by the crank. TechCrunch and Engadget cite 20–30 seconds; CNET reports about 20 seconds; another outlet mentions “about 30 seconds.” The number of turns required also varies, ranging from three or four to five-ten turns. No independent testing has confirmed these figures, and Ring has not disclosed precise battery capacity or voltage per turn.
Verbatim Quotes
“Almost everything in our lives today is digital, yet we still carry around little pieces of metal in our pockets,” — Jamie Siminoff, Ring’s founder
What’s Next
Ring expects the lock to become available in early 2027 after FCC clearance. The company has not announced any subscription requirements. Buyers should verify Sidewalk coverage and confirm that their door dimensions match a standard single-cylinder deadbolt before installation.