This smart lock never runs out of battery — because I shoot it with lasers – The Verge

The Future of Smart Homes: Wireless Charging Revolutionizes the Way We Live

Imagine a world where your smart devices never run out of battery, where you don’t have to worry about cords cluttering up your home, and where you have the freedom to place your gadgets anywhere you want. Sounds like a utopia, right? Well, thanks to Wi-Charge’s innovative technology, this futuristic scenario is closer than you think.

I’ve had the privilege of testing a smart lock with a hidden superpower – infrared wireless charging – for the past year, and I’m here to tell you that it’s been a game-changer. The Wi-Charge transmitter in my ceiling has been silently working its magic, keeping my smart lock’s battery at 100% at all times. No more dead batteries, no more hassle, no more stress.

But what’s truly remarkable about Wi-Charge’s technology is its potential to transform the way we live. Imagine having wireless power everywhere – in your smart faucets, shades, and even your robot vacuum. The possibilities are endless, and the benefits are numerous. With wireless power, you’ll enjoy the convenience of battery-powered gadgets without the hassle of recharging or replacing batteries. You’ll have voice control, schedules, and hands-free operation at your fingertips.

So, how does it work? Wi-Charge’s AirCord technology uses infrared lasers to beam power from its R1 wireless power transmitters to a receiver within line of sight. The standard transmitter can deliver 100mW to devices within 10 meters, while the higher-powered one can send 300mW at up to 5 meters. One transmitter can juice up multiple devices, powering one at a time.

But what about safety concerns? Wi-Charge assures us that their technology is safe, with Class 1 FDA approval and FCC-certification. The transmitters use a low-powered laser to locate the receiver and switch to high power for charging once the connection is established. When I walk under one, it cuts off the transmission, resuming it once I’ve passed through (indicated by a small LED status light).

I’ve had two Wi-Charge transmitters in my house for a year now, and I can attest to their safety and effectiveness. My smart lock has never run out of battery, and I’ve enjoyed the convenience of wireless power throughout my home.

The Wi-Charge-compatible Alfred DB2S smart lock is a sleek, modern deadbolt lock with a high-quality build. It features a touchscreen keypad, a keyway for unlocking, and the option of two RFID keyfobs. It works over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (with a separate $60 bridge) to connect to Alfred’s app for managing keycodes and controlling the lock, as well as connections to Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

While the lock costs around $320 (with the Wi-Charge conversion kit sold separately), it’s a worthwhile investment for the convenience and peace of mind it provides. And who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll see wireless power become the norm, and our homes will be clutter-free, stress-free, and powered by the magic of infrared lasers.

Actionable Insights:

  • Consider investing in a Wi-Charge-compatible smart lock for the convenience and peace of mind it provides.
  • Look into Wi-Charge’s AirCord technology for its potential to transform the way we live and work.
  • Keep an eye out for future developments in wireless power technology, as it’s likely to become a game-changer in the world of smart homes.

Summary:

Wi-Charge’s innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we live and work. With its infrared wireless charging capabilities, you’ll never have to worry about dead batteries or cords cluttering up your home again. The Wi-Charge-compatible Alfred DB2S smart lock is a sleek, modern deadbolt lock that’s worth considering for its convenience and peace of mind. As wireless power technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see a future where our homes are clutter-free, stress-free, and powered by the magic of infrared lasers.