Ring adds manual charging to its first smart lock
The first Ring lock produces an emergency load with a manual dial, but its launch remains American and its efficiency must be verified.
A smart lock is convenient until the battery dies. Ring wants to eliminate this concern with its first connected lock: a keyless model with a dial capable of producing just enough electricity to unlock the door.
Announced on 7 October, the Ring Smart Lock is not yet marketed. It is expected to arrive in the United States in early 2027, after receiving the required regulatory approvals. No Canadian exit is confirmed.
A dial to enter despite an empty battery
The Backup Power Dial is installed directly under the keypad of the lock. When the main battery is exhausted, the user turns this dial a few times, waits for the availability indicator, then between its PIN.
According to an interview with [GeekWire with the founder of Ring] (https://www.geekware.com/2026/rings-first-smart-lock-ditches-the-key-and-adds-a-dial-to-relive-a-dead-battery/), about five to ten rotations temporarily fuel the lock. Other reports speak of a supercapacitor that keeps this small charge for a few dozen seconds. Ring has not yet published a data sheet to verify the amount of energy produced or the operating conditions.
The main battery is a rechargeable and removable block. Ring estimates that it should last about a year, but it is a manufacturer's statement, not an independent measure. Once the door is open thanks to the dial, it is always necessary to remove and recharge this battery to restore normal operation.
Four ways to open, but no metal key
The lock offers four means of access: a fingerprint, a PIN on the touch keyboard, the Ring app or an Alexa command. It can also assign limited access in time, for example to a person who comes to walk the dog every Tuesday.
The Amazon release states that local unlocking occurs on the device. Remote functions, PIN synchronization, and status notices are more like Amazon Sidewalk, a shared network using nearby Amazon devices. Coverage may vary and be interrupted.
Ring states that the installation does not require wiring or locksmiths and that the mechanism adapts to a standard single cylinder sleeper. These claims will need to be verified on different doors, particularly with the dimensions, spoils and winter conditions common in Canada.
A lock closely linked to Amazon
The Ring Smart Lock integrates with the brand's bells, cameras and alarm systems. An owner will be able to view the entries in the historic Ring or unlock during a live view.
This integration comes with a compromise. The initial information published by Toms Guide and TechRadar does not indicate any compatibility with Matter, Apple Home or Google Home. The lock therefore seems to be intended primarily for homes already equipped with Ring, Echo and Alexa. These compatibilitys could still evolve before it is released.
The fingerprint reader and access history also raise questions about data storage, encryption and deletion. Ring has not yet published sufficient technical details to assess these aspects.
Prices, availability and Canada
The product page displays a single model at $249.99 US, available in black, silver or brass. This price is not a Canadian price and no approximate conversion is provided. It could vary depending on configuration, retailer, promotion and region.
It is not yet possible to buy it: the page only collects registrations to the availability notices. Ring also states that the aircraft has not yet received the required FCC clearance. The company is aiming for an American sale in early 2027.
The same page explicitly states that the product ** is not shipped to Canada**. No Canadian dollar prices, local calendar or Canadian registration details were announced.
Limits or Considerations
No media has yet published a full practical test of the emergency dial. Its effectiveness with gel, moisture, wear or after several years remains unknown. Resistance to physical attacks, speed of fingerprint reader, false releases and security of communications should also be assessed.
The absence of a mechanical key avoids having to hide it, but also removes an entirely passive backup solution. Any failure of the dial, electronics or internal mechanism may require professional intervention.
Conclusion
Ring's emergency dial is an elegant answer to a concrete problem. It could make keyless locks less risky in case of forgotten battery, without requiring a 9 V battery or USB cable in front of the door.
However, the good mechanical idea is not enough to validate the product. Regulatory authorization, independent testing and more accurate responses on safety, cold resistance and interoperability will be required. For Canadians, the conclusion is even simpler: this lock is not currently sold or announced here.
