Seeking to bring a new type of lock to the market, electronic giant Sony has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Japan-based platform Makuake for the Qrio Smart Lock.
According Gizmodo, the lock is described as the smallest of its kind and is considered a retofittable piece of door furniture that allows users to open doors by using their smartphones. The user will also be able to share encrypted keys with other people through messaging apps.
The Wall Street Journal also reveled that Sony has stated it was looking forward to the feedback from the lock’s gadget-loving contributors. The first 200 backers who paid Y11,250 ($95) will receive a prototype, while others will have the same offer if they give Y12,000 ($100). The retail price for the lock is expected to be Y15,000 ($120).
Qrio is a joint venture between Sony and World innovation Lab, which is a U.S.-based venture capital fund that was launched last year by various Japanese companies, including ANA Holdings, Inc; Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp.; and Nissan Motor Co.
So far, Sony’s campaign has been a huge success and has raised Y2,385,750.
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