The CES Innovation Awards are one of the world’s largest and most renowned technology events, held with the purpose of recognizing outstanding design and engineering in consumer technology products. At CES 2026, Lockin made a major mark, winning “Best of Innovation” and garnering praise from both CNN and CNET. Lockin’s spotlight product, the V7 Max, debuted a set of innovations that completely changed industry expectations for smart locks; their utilization of wireless optical charging sets a new precedent for home security, ending battery anxiety altogether.
Ending Battery Anxiety Forever
The most notable achievement of the V7 Max is centered on power: by utilizing wireless optical charging, Lockin has eliminated the need for recharging or replacing batteries. Traditional smart locks rely on either solar power (requiring direct sunlight), or battery power, meaning the batteries will eventually need to be manually replaced—this creates major limitations for users, as the threat of being locked out is ever-present.
In contrast, the V7 Max uses AuraCharge technology (wireless optical charging) to safely transmit energy over a distance of up to four meters. This means that your lock stays powered continuously, so you never have to change a battery or charge it manually again. As noted by ZDNET, the Lockin V7 Max is a breakthrough in smart devices, “where true innovation is rare”; this technology suggests a future where you can install a smart home device and simply forget about maintenance.
Your Body Is the Key
Lockin pushed new boundaries by examining security and accessibility side by side: it’s not just about keeping the door shut, it’s about how you get inside. The new V7 Max lock features three advanced layers of biometric security—finger vein recognition, palm vein recognition, and 3D facial recognition.
In terms of both security and accessibility, these methods are far superior to standard fingerprints or PIN codes. They’re extremely difficult to trick, ensuring ultimate control over entrance to your home. Additionally, it provides contactless access, removing the hassle of juggling keys or complex codes; you simply walk up to your door, and the lock recognizes you instantly.
More Than Just a Lock
Furthermore, Lockin combines the functionality of locks and security cameras. The V7 Max includes three high-definition cameras and dual 5-inch touchscreens, effectively turning the device into a video doorbell as well.
This integration changes how you interact with your entryway. You can see visitors and talk to them directly through the lock’s interface. Whether you’re checking on a delivery or watching for a guest, the lock serves as a single, comprehensive device to handle it all.
Smart AI and Connection
The innovation continues with software. Lockin also showcased its LockinAI suite, a built-in intelligence system that responds to real-world situations. It offers features like package detection and theft prevention, and can even index activity and trigger smart alerts.
Additionally, The V7 Max is built for the modern smart home: it becomes a connected part of your entire home network, rather than a standalone gadget. The Lockin V7 Max fully supports the Matter standard, working seamlessly with ecosystems from Google, Apple, Amazon, and Samsung.
A Recognized Innovation
These advancements earned significant recognition. The V7 Max received the "Best of Innovation" honor at the CES 2026 Awards, highlighting the industry's excitement for optical charging and advanced design.
Additionally, Lockin’s V7 Max was awarded “Best Smart Home Tech” by CNN Underscored, and named as a winner by CNET in the same category.
Ultimately, Lockin showed that the future of the front door is intelligent and effortless. By combining endless power, biometric security, and AI, they created an experience that is deeply connected and worry-free.
References：
Consumer Technology Association (CES). (2026, January). Lockin AI Smart Lock Named a CES 2026 Innovation Awards Honoree. https://www.ces.tech/ces-innovation-awards/2026/lockin-ai-smart-lock/
CNET. (2026, January). Best of CES 2026. https://www.cnet.com/best-of-ces-2026/
CNN Underscored. (2026, January). Best of CES 2026. https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/electronics/best-of-ces-2026
ZDNET. (2026, January). Lockin V7 Max Smart Lock Hands-On at CES 2026. https://www.zdnet.com/home-and-office/smart-home/lockin-v7-max-smart-lock-ces-2026/
PR Newswire. (2026, January). Lockin Unveils V7 Max with AuraCharge at CES 2026. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lockin-debuts-first-of-its-kind-optical-charging-smart-lock-with-eternal-zero-maintenance-power-at-ces-2026-302652127.html
Residential Systems. (2026, January). Lockin Addresses Smart Lock Battery Anxiety with New Innovations. https://www.residentialsystems.com/technology/security/lockin-debuts-smart-lock-with-zero-maintenance-power