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Amazon announced the Ring Smart Lock, its first smart lock, with a thumb-turn dial that can generate enough power to unlock the door if the battery dies. The $249 lock is expected in the US in early 2027, pending FCC approval; Amazon has not said exactly how many turns are needed.
Amazon has announced the Ring Smart Lock, its first smart lock, with a thumb-turn dial that can generate enough power to unlock the door if the rechargeable battery unexpectedly dies. The $249 device is expected to go on sale in the US in early 2027, pending FCC approval, and is designed to provide an alternative to a physical backup key or an external emergency power connection.
The lock’s thumb-turn doubles as an emergency charger: Ring says turning it “a few times” can generate enough power to unlock the door and enter the home. Amazon has not specified how many turns are required. Once inside, users can fully recharge the lock’s battery. The announcement does not describe the amount of charge produced or how long the emergency power lasts.
Access options include a fingerprint reader and a backlit touchscreen keypad that can support multiple users. Owners can create temporary codes that expire after a set period and schedule when different people have access. The lock can also be controlled and monitored through the Ring app or by voice using Alexa-compatible devices, including Echo speakers.
Ring says installation does not require wiring. The lock uses a replaceable Quick Release Ultra Battery Pack and connects to other devices through Amazon’s Sidewalk network rather than relying on a home Wi-Fi connection. Sidewalk coverage is required for network-connected features. The lock itself has no camera, so homeowners seeking a visual record of visitors would need to pair it with a doorbell camera or another compatible security camera.
Emergency Access Without a Backup Key
A dead battery can leave a smart-lock user unable to enter unless the device has a separate emergency method, such as a concealed charging port, battery contacts or a physical key. Ring’s approach puts the emergency power mechanism in the turning dial itself, potentially making it easier to access than a port or external battery connection. The company’s claim is limited, however: it says a few turns can power an unlock, not that the dial will recharge the battery fully.
The lock also makes network choice relevant to buyers. Its remote controls and alerts depend on Sidewalk coverage, not the home Wi-Fi connection, so availability and performance of those features may differ by location. Buyers will need to weigh the emergency-power design and app features against the device’s price, network requirements and lack of a built-in camera.
Ring smart lock emergency power dial
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Ring’s First Lock Joins Camera Launch
The smart lock was announced alongside new Ring cameras, including several 4K models and a 2K indoor pan-and-tilt camera. Those products are separate from the lock: the Smart Lock has no integrated camera, and Amazon’s announcement does not say that a camera is required to use it.
The announced lock is scheduled for a later release than some of the cameras. Ring lists the Smart Lock at $249 and says it will be offered in black, silver and brass. The reported US launch window is early 2027, subject to FCC approval; Amazon has not announced a specific release date.
““A few times””
— Amazon, describing the emergency-power feature
Turn Count and Launch Date Unset
Amazon has not disclosed the number of turns needed for an emergency unlock, how the generated power is stored, or whether the mechanism will work under every battery-failure condition. The announcement says the dial can provide enough power to unlock the door, but does not give a technical explanation or independent test results.
The early 2027 US availability window remains conditional on FCC approval, and no exact date was provided. Amazon also has not stated the lock’s battery life, the cost or availability of replacement battery packs, or what remote functions remain available during a Sidewalk outage or when coverage is inadequate.
FCC Review and Release Details
The next stated milestone is the lock’s planned US release in early 2027, if it receives FCC approval. Amazon has not announced a preorder date or provided further launch timing in the source report. Additional product details, including operating specifications and answers about emergency charging, may emerge closer to release.
People considering the lock will also need to check whether Sidewalk coverage is available where they live and whether its access methods suit their household. The announced price is $249, but the source does not specify any subscription requirement or additional service cost for the lock.
Key Questions
How does the Ring Smart Lock work if its battery dies?
Amazon says users can turn the thumb-turn dial a few times to generate enough power to unlock the door. The exact number of turns has not been disclosed.
When will the Ring Smart Lock be available?
It is expected in the US in early 2027, pending FCC approval. Amazon has not announced a specific date.
How much will the Ring Smart Lock cost?
The announced price is $249. Ring plans to offer black, silver and brass finishes.
Does the Ring Smart Lock include a camera?
No. The lock has no built-in camera. The Verge report says users seeking video of people at the door would need a separate camera or smart doorbell.
Does the lock use home Wi-Fi?
Ring says it connects to other devices using Amazon’s Sidewalk network rather than home Wi-Fi. Network features depend on having adequate Sidewalk coverage.
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