Image: Philips
Philips created a new smart lock that doesn’t require a key or a code — all you need is your hand. The company showed off its new $359.99 Wi-Fi Palm Recognition Smart Deadbolt during CES 2024, which comes with a built-in palm scanner that unlocks your door when it detects your unique palm print.
Philips says its lock can register up to 50 palm vein patterns and identify hands belonging to people of all ages — even if they’re dirty. The palm-scanning tech seems a bit more convenient than having to type in a PIN or fumble for a house key, although these two methods are still available to use with this smart lock if you need them. You can also unlock the device using the Philips Home Access mobile app.
While we’ve already seen tech giants like Amazon use palm-scanning tech for payments and age verification, Philips seems to be the only major company incorporating the feature into its smart locks so far. The tech seems even more sci-fi than the fingerprint-scanning locks and the ones that open using a digital key stored on your smartphone. I’m not sure it can beat the futuristic feel of this facial recognition smart lock Lockly also announced at CES this year, though.
Philips’ palm-scanning lock doubles as a doorbell, too. It comes with a bell button directly beneath its keypad that, when pressed, will send a notification to your phone via the Philips mobile app. There’s an included wireless doorbell chime as well, allowing you to hear when someone’s at your door.
Meanwhile, the indoor-facing portion of the device features proximity sensors that can sense when you’re reaching for the door knob. The deadlock will automatically unlock as you reach to open the door and will lock when you leave. It’s also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, letting you use voice commands to control and manage the smart lock.
Philips says its Wi-Fi Palm Recognition Smart Deadbolt will be available in satin nickel and matte black when it’s released in the first half of 2024.
