TL;DR
SwitchBot unveiled the Lock Vision deadbolt at CES, a replace-in-door smart lock that can unlock using 3D facial recognition. The lock supports Matter-over-Wi-Fi for Apple Home integration, offers multiple access methods, and comes in two variants including a Pro model with additional biometrics; pricing and release dates were not announced.
What happened
At CES, SwitchBot introduced the Lock Vision, its first deadbolt-style smart lock designed to replace an existing door lock rather than mounting over it. The device uses 3D facial recognition to enable what the company describes as near-instant unlocking after a face scan. The Lock Vision also supports Matter-over-Wi-Fi, allowing direct integration with Apple Home, and offers a range of access options including passcodes, app control, NFC cards, geofenced auto-unlocking and a physical key. SwitchBot says the main rechargeable battery can last up to six months on a single charge and that an emergency backup battery can keep the lock powered for as long as five years. Two versions were announced: a base model with the face-unlock and other standard methods, and a Lock Vision Pro that adds fingerprint scanning and contactless palm-vein recognition. SwitchBot has not disclosed price or availability details.
Why it matters
- Biometric unlocking (face, fingerprint, palm-vein) could speed entry and reduce dependence on keys or external retrofit modules.
- Native Matter-over-Wi-Fi support may simplify integration with Apple Home and other Matter-enabled ecosystems.
- Moving from retrofit devices to a replace-in-door deadbolt signals a different approach to smart-lock hardware and installation.
- Long backup battery claims aim to address a common concern about smart lock power failures and emergency access.
Key facts
- Product name: SwitchBot Lock Vision series, unveiled at CES.
- Form factor: deadbolt that replaces an existing door lock rather than fitting over it.
- Primary biometric: 3D facial recognition for near-instant unlocking.
- Connectivity: Matter-over-Wi-Fi for direct integration with Apple Home.
- Battery: rechargeable main battery rated up to six months per charge, plus an emergency backup battery rated up to five years.
- Variants: base Lock Vision and Lock Vision Pro.
- Base unlock methods: facial recognition, passcodes, app control, geofenced auto-unlocking, NFC card, and physical key.
- Pro adds: fingerprint scanning and contactless palm-vein recognition.
- Price and availability: not revealed by SwitchBot.
What to watch next
- Exact pricing and regional availability for both Lock Vision models — not confirmed in the source.
- Detailed security and privacy information on biometric data storage and processing — not confirmed in the source.
- Compatibility with a wide range of door types and existing strike/door preparations for in-place replacement — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Deadbolt: A strong locking mechanism that extends a solid metal bolt into the door frame; commonly used for exterior doors and often replaced as a single unit.
- 3D facial recognition: A biometric technology that maps three-dimensional features of a person's face to verify identity, designed to be harder to spoof than 2D image-based systems.
- Matter-over-Wi-Fi: A smart-home connectivity standard that allows devices to communicate directly over Wi‑Fi using the Matter protocol for cross-platform interoperability.
- NFC (Near Field Communication): A short-range wireless technology used for contactless data exchange, commonly employed for cards and smartphone-based access.
- Palm-vein recognition: A biometric method that authenticates a person by scanning the unique vein patterns under the skin of the palm without physical contact.
Reader FAQ
When will the Lock Vision be available and how much will it cost?
Not confirmed in the source.
Does the Lock Vision work with Apple Home?
The lock supports Matter-over-Wi-Fi, which the company says enables direct integration with Apple Home.
What biometric methods are supported?
The base Lock Vision uses 3D facial recognition; the Lock Vision Pro adds fingerprint scanning and contactless palm-vein recognition.
How long does the battery last?
SwitchBot reports the rechargeable battery lasts up to six months per charge and an emergency backup battery can last up to five years.
TECH GADGETS NEWS You can unlock SwitchBot’s first deadbolt smart lock with your face The new Lock Vision series features an emergency backup battery and Matter-over-Wi-Fi support. by Jess Weatherbed…
Sources
- You can unlock SwitchBot’s first deadbolt smart lock with your face
- SwitchBot Lock Ultra Vision Combo
- No Drills, No Keys: SwitchBot's Face-Unlock Smart Lock Is …
- SwitchBot Lock Ultra Vision Combo Review: Face Unlock …
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