#USA #Las Vegas #WePower Technologies #Southco #Gemns

Introducing the Future of Access Control: A Battery-Free Smart Lock

At CES 2026, WePower Technologies and Southco have announced a game-changing innovation in the security realm: a battery-free, wireless smart lock that not only simplifies installation but also significantly reduces maintenance costs for OEMs and facility operators. This new solution leverages state-of-the-art kinetic energy harvesting to power the locking mechanism and wireless communications, offering a truly maintenance-free access control option.

The Technology Behind the Smart Lock

The newly developed solution, showcased at WePower's booth (#8425, North Hall), features the Gemns™ G200 energy harvester. This cutting-edge technology, which operates without a battery, utilizes high-efficiency electronics to power Southco’s locking actuator and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radio. As a result, OEMs can deploy connected locks efficiently, without the added complications of power wiring or the need for battery maintenance, making it ideal for various applications in remote locations.

What's remarkable about this system is its capacity to eliminate the traditional barriers associated with electronic locks. Facilities that previously relied on wired or battery-operated locks can now benefit from secure access without the need for costly service trips to replace batteries or install wiring.

Practical Applications of the Battery-Free Smart Lock

Ideal for retrofitting secure access in environments like data centers, industrial equipment, and remote enclosures, this battery-free solution allows businesses to connect thousands of access points that were previously unfeasible due to wiring constraints or battery replacement costs. The ease of installation means reduced downtime for operations, enhancing overall efficiency.

The smart lock can also communicate wirelessly with a dedicated smartphone app. This feature enables users to control the lock’s status remotely, adding to the convenience of managing access points from anywhere. The Gemns platform is tailored for scalability, allowing customization for various customer needs across different applications, from industrial units to corporate office access.

Innovative Collaboration and Future Advantages

Steve Spatig, General Manager of Electronic Access Solutions at Southco, highlights that this advanced technology simplifies traditional wired access systems to a more straightforward, plug-and-play model. By replacing mechanical locks with the new connected versions, facilities can enhance security and manage their systems more efficiently via smartphones or wireless gateways.

Larry Richenstein, CEO of WePower Technologies, emphasizes the significance of breaking down the obstacles that have historically prevented the scaling of connected access systems. The collaboration with Southco illustrates how energy harvesting technology is pivotal in overcoming challenges like battery replacement and wiring complexities while also reducing maintenance expenditures. This, in turn, opens the door for sustainable and secure access solutions across a wide range of settings.

Conclusion: A Leap Towards Sustainable Access Solutions

The unveiling of the battery-free smart lock at CES 2026 signifies a significant advancement in access control technology. By not only providing secure electronic access but also streamlining installation and maintenance processes, WePower and Southco are setting new standards in the industry. This innovative approach to access security illustrates the potential for a more connected, efficient future where electronics operate without the constraints of traditional power sources.

WePower Technologies continues to work towards its mission to eliminate disposable batteries in the Internet of Things (IoT) sphere, aiming for a future where electronic waste is minimized, and sustainable technologies flourish. For more information about this groundbreaking technology, visit WePower Technologies or Southco.