Smart locks at CES 2026 introduce wireless charging, fast unlocking and solar panels

CES 2026 featured a wave of new smart locks that add wireless charging, video doorbells and biometric or proximity unlocking (including 3D facial, vein-based and UWB options). Many models support Matter for cross-platform compatibility and are designed for simple installation.

CES 2026 brought broad attention to a new generation of smart locks from multiple manufacturers. Exhibits highlighted integrated video doorbells, wireless charging, and a range of biometric and proximity unlocking methods. Several vendors emphasised Matter compatibility and easier installation, including guided setup tools. A few models also showed alternative power options such as built-in solar panels. Key takeaways: - Wireless charging: The Lockin V7 Max won a CES 2026 Innovation Award for AuraCharge wireless charging that is reported to work within a four‑metre range and aims to reduce battery changes. - Biometric and contactless unlocking: Multiple locks support 3D facial recognition, finger or palm vein scanning, or palm-recognition gesture systems; Desloc reported a curved fingerprint sensor and a claimed 1.5‑second unlock time for one model. - Proximity and location-based entry: The Aqara Smart Lock U400 uses UWB to locate a user within roughly a centimetre and to tell which side of the door they are on; Yale’s Linus Smart Lock L2 Lite uses phone location to auto-unlock on approach. - Video doorbells and intelligent alerts: Some locks integrate video doorbells and on-device cameras; Desloc’s S150 Max includes dual 2K cameras and AI subject-recognition to distinguish people, pets and packages. - Power and install options: Desloc displayed a model with a solar panel to top up its rechargeable battery, and several makers emphasised simple installation or interactive guided apps; many of the new locks shown are reported as Matter‑compatible. Summary: The new smart locks on show at CES 2026 combine multiple access methods, power approaches and smart‑home compatibility to broaden user choice. Some products have stated availability windows or prices (for example, the Kwikset Aura Reach was listed at $189 in the US), while other models still lack firm dates or final pricing. Undetermined at this time.