Today, SwitchBot has announced the new SwitchBot Lock Vision and Lock Vision Pro. For Apple Home users, these new locks support Matter over Wi-Fi out of the box, so you do not need to buy one of these SwitchBot hubs to connect them, but you only need an Apple TV or HomePod. Let’s take a closer look at what these new smart locks offer and don’t
HomeKit Weekly is a series focused on smart home accessories, automation tips and tricks, and everything to do with Apple’s smart home framework.
Biometrics and facial recognition
Outside of native Apple Home support, the major feature of the new Lock Vision series is 3D facial recognition. The SwitchBot Lock Vision projects over 20,000 infrared points to create a precise 3D depth map of your face, preventing someone from spoofing the camera with a photograph or video. SwitchBot claims the system unlocks the door in under one second and can recognize users even if they are wearing glasses, hats, wigs, or heavy makeup. All biometric data is stored locally, encrypted with AES-128 for privacy.
If you want even more options on unlocking, the Lock Vision Pro model includes everything on the standard version, plus semiconductor fingerprint recognition and contactless palm scanning. The palm vein scanner uses near-infrared sensing technology to read the vascular patterns inside your hand without you ever having to touch the device.
A dual battery system and mmWave radar
Power wise, SwitchBot included a dual power, dual pack system to ensure continuous access. A 10000mAh rechargeable battery handles daily use, and SwitchBot says it should last up to 12 months on a full charge under typical conditions. A secondary CR123A battery inside of the lock takes over if the main battery dies, providing up to 500 emergency unlocks. If both internal batteries somehow go out while you are out of the house, there is a USB-C port on the exterior hardware to supply temporary power using a power brick, etc.
With the aim of stretching battery life as long as possible, the SwitchBot Lock Vision uses mmWave radar. This ensures the lock activates its biometric scanning only when someone physically approaches the door, saving power.
Matter over Wi-Fi integration
As I mentioned in the beginning, both locks in the Lock Vision series support Matter over Wi-Fi. This is a huge win for Apple Home users. Instead of bridging the lock through a secondary hub, you just need an Apple TV or a HomePod. The lock also supports alternative unlocking methods such as NFC cards, passcodes, auto-unlock via geo-fencing, and a physical key as well.
Lock Vision versus Lock Vision Pro and wrap up
If you are trying to decide which model to buy, the core features like the large battery, Matter over Wi-Fi support, and 3D facial recognition are identical across both locks. The Pro model simply justifies its higher price tag by adding two extra biometric options.
- SwitchBot Lock Vision ($169.99): Includes 3D facial recognition, passcodes, NFC cards, and Apple Home support.
- SwitchBot Lock Vision Pro ($229.99): Includes everything in the standard model, plus semiconductor fingerprint recognition and contactless palm scanning.
SwitchBot checks a lot of boxes here. About the only thing missing is Apple Home Key support.
The SwitchBot Lock Vision retails for $169.99, while the upgraded Lock Vision Pro comes in at $229.99. Both models are officially available starting today on Amazon with launch day deals available.
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