{"title": "Lockin Unveils V7 Max Smart Lock That Draws Power from Optical Beams Rather Than Batteries", "body": ["At CES, Lockin introduced its V7 Max, a mortise-style smart entry lock and handle. While various smart locks incorporate solar panels to charge internal batteries, the V7 Max stands out as the initial model powered nonstop by an optical transmitter that directs light to a panel on the lock's inner escutcheon. This groundbreaking energy approach secured the device a Best of Innovation accolade in the CES 2026 Innovation Awards."], ["Central to the V7 Max is Lockin's AuraCharge system. Rather than depending on single-use batteries, lithium-ion rechargeables, or photovoltaic cells, the lock obtains steady wireless energy from a specialized AuraCharge unit emitting harmless optical signals. The unit connects to a standard electrical socket and mounts inside the home, positioned no farther than 13 feet from the lock, whether placed on a surface or affixed to a wall. It demands a clear path to the lock but functions effectively under any ambient light levels."], ["Lockin describes AuraCharge as the next evolution in smart lock energy solutions, addressing the widespread concern over battery depletion in networked door systems. The setup ensures dependable performance across diverse weather conditions and mounting setups."], ["On the V7 Max's inner escutcheon, the AuraCharge receiver transforms incoming light into ongoing electricity to fuel the smart lock's operations."], ["Beyond power, the V7 Max integrates numerous detection and interface elements. It enables three-form biometric verification, incorporating finger-vein scanning, palm-vein scanning, and three-dimensional face identification. The exterior features two high-resolution cameras offering wide-angle video doorbell capabilities, complemented by twin 5-inch touch displays that permit monitoring of callers, controlling permissions, and engaging with the device from either side of the entrance. Extra imaging and sensing components in the outer setup minimize visibility gaps around the doorway."], ["The device incorporates LockinAI, an AI-driven platform facilitating automated routines for activities including package arrival alerts, anti-theft measures, guest oversight, and video archive searches. It connects via the Matter standard, enabling seamless compatibility with smart home platforms from Google, Apple, Amazon, and Samsung, independent of additional bridges."], ["Users can position the AuraCharge transmitter on a tabletop or secure it to a vertical surface."], ["The V7 Max's aesthetic was overseen by Hartmut Esslinger, once Apple's lead designer, yielding an impressively thin 15mm exterior plate amid its extensive capabilities. The company has yet to reveal the lock's cost. Given the exacting setup needed for mortise installations, Lockin offers expert fitting services for customers upgrading from standard mortise locks and handles."], ["Lockin has also revealed that an updated AuraCharge variant will debut in its popular Veno Pro model during early 2026, with costs likely hovering near $350."], ["Preorders for the V7 Max open in January 2026, followed by deliveries in the first quarter of that year."], ["For CES visitors interested in experiencing the Lockin V7 Max firsthand, it's showcased at the company's booth in the Venetian Expo, location #52712."], ["This report forms part of TechHive's comprehensive review of leading smart lock options."]}