Imagine never having to worry about replacing batteries in your smart lock again. Sounds too good to be true, right? But that’s exactly what Lockin’s groundbreaking wireless smart locks promise—and it’s a game-changer for renters and apartment dwellers. At CES 2026, I stumbled upon the Lockin V7 Max, a device that not only operates wirelessly but also eliminates the need for recharging or battery replacements. And here’s the kicker: it doesn’t rely on solar power. But here’s where it gets controversial—can a lock truly provide infinite power without sunlight?
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Now, back to the star of the show. The Lockin V7 Max uses a technology called AuraCharge, which the company describes as optical wireless charging. Here’s how it works: a base station, plugged into a power source, emits a beam of light that powers the lock wirelessly from up to 4 meters away. And this is the part most people miss—the base station doesn’t need to be large or obtrusive; it’s about the size of a small speaker and can be placed on a table or mounted discreetly. Lockin assures that the optical output is eye-safe, with dual safety certifications from TÜV Rheinland and SGS.
What makes this lock truly stand out is its ability to alleviate battery anxiety. Unlike traditional locks that rely on disposable batteries, lithium-ion rechargeables, or solar power, the V7 Max offers an infinite power supply without external conditions. Designed as a sleek 15mm mortise lock, it packs high-end features like three types of biometric security: finger vein, palm vein, and 3D facial recognition. Plus, it includes a keypad, voice entry, and Lockin AI, which customizes the user experience for scenarios like theft prevention, delivery management, and video indexing.
But wait, there’s more. The V7 Max doubles as a video doorbell, with HD cameras on both sides and 5-inch touchscreens for seamless interaction. It’s compatible with Google, Apple, Amazon, and Samsung smart home systems, as well as the Matter protocol. However, here’s a thought-provoking question: with all these features, is the V7 Max’s $1,300 price tag justified, or is it overkill for the average user?
For those who prefer a more traditional design, Lockin is also introducing the Veno Pro Wireless, a deadbolt version with AuraCharge technology and vein detection. It’s expected to be more affordable and easier to install, making it a practical choice for standard door setups. Additionally, the company is launching the Aeon, a solar-powered lock that uses perovskite solar tech for better energy conversion—even in overcast conditions. But is solar power reliable enough for regions with limited sunlight?
All three locks will be available for preorder after CES, with shipping in early 2026 via Amazon (https://cc.cnet.com/v1/otc/04Yxjj1rHOmYAxbnVDhvKNn?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FLockin-Fingerprint-Recognition-Detection-Weatherproof%2Fdp%2FB0DYJWST43%3Fth%3D1&app_deeplink=1) and Lockin.com (http://www.lockin.com/). While exact pricing isn’t available yet, the V7 Max is rumored to cost up to $1,300, with a release in late July or early August.
What do you think? Is the V7 Max’s infinite power worth the premium price, or are simpler, more affordable options like the Veno Pro or Aeon the smarter choice? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!