For those not looking to abracadabra their way inside, the smart deadbolt still allows you to unlock it using a PIN, voice commands, the Philips Home Access mobile app, or, God forbid, an actual key. But the magic isn’t limited to the front of the door. Inside, the lock can detect your approach with built-in proximity sensors, so when users reach towards the doorknob, it registers your presence and unlocks. Hopefully, the dog doesn’t figure out this feature.
The smart deadbolt is likely to go on sale in early spring 2024 and retail for $359.99 as part of Philips’ home security system products. This range includes smart security cameras, door sensors, and doorbells, all seemingly intended to compete with Ring. With Amazon planning to bring its palm-scanning payment system to all Whole Foods locations by the end of the year, it’ll only be a matter of time before one can come home with a bag full of groceries in one hand and wave open the door with the other, all without dropping the eggs.
