Xiaomi's new smart lock: Finger vein security hits the market

The Xiaomi company from China has launched its latest smart door lock, the Smart Door Lock 2 Finger Vein Version. This new version introduces an improved biometric recognition technique based on finger vein patterns, features NFC connectivity, and integrates with the HyperOS system for smart homes.

This innovative lock from Xiaomi employs an advanced identification system utilizing finger veins, offering more precise security than traditional fingerprint readers. Available for pre-sale in China, the Smart Door Lock 2 Finger Vein Version supports unlocking in ten different ways, including NFC, password entry, Bluetooth, and a traditional key. The manufacturer highlights that the recognition error rate is exceptionally low at only 0.0001%, significantly enhancing previous models.

Xiaomi offers its newest lock at a promotional price of 1,299 yuan, roughly CAD 182, with a deposit of 100 yuan, approximately CAD 14. After the pre-sale, the price will go up to 1,499 yuan or about CAD 210. Besides its quiet locking mechanism and alarm system, the lock's battery can last up to a year on a single charge. Users can monitor the lock's status remotely via the Xiaomi app, ensuring seamless integration with the HyperOS smart home system, as noted by Notebookcheck.

Biometrics, the technology for identification based on unique physical or behavioural characteristics, is becoming increasingly popular in various fields, from security to mobile devices and banking. While biometrics can offer a high level of security, like all technology, it has potential vulnerabilities. It's essential to deploy it judiciously, ideally alongside other security measures.