Market Trends of Japan Smart Lock Industry
Biometric is Expected to Witness a Significant Growth
- Japan is known for its new and advanced technology sector. The continuous improvement and innovation in biometric technologies, such as more accurate fingerprint sensors and facial recognition, make these options more reliable and appealing for smart-lock applications. In addition, as smart home technology becomes more prevalent in Japan, integrating biometric-enabled smart locks with other smart devices enhances the appeal. Biometrics can seamlessly incorporate broader smart home systems, offering a cohesive and secure home environment.
- As consumers in Japan increasingly recognize the significance of strong home security and the growing role of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, the smart lock market is poised for sustained growth. A focal point for manufacturers in the smart home sector has been biometrics. This technology enhances security access to devices while maintaining the convenience consumers value—in contrast to traditional password-protected smart locks, biometric authentication leverages securely stored personally identifiable information on the device, ensuring utmost privacy.
- Fingerprint locks have significance in the smart lock market. These locks utilize human fingerprints for identification, representing a fusion of computer information and electronic, mechanical, and modern hardware technologies. Beyond fingerprint identification, these locks often incorporate additional unlocking methods, including passwords, cards, mobile apps, and traditional keys. There's a growing trend where users manage their fingerprint locks via mobile apps, enabling control through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections.
- In June 2023, Aqara, a provider of smart home products, expanded its smart lock portfolio by including a deadbolt lock, the Smart Lock U100. Designed to replace legacy deadbolt locks, the U100 lock provides users with a secure and convenient access control solution with passwords, fingerprints, and even Apple Home critical capability. Furthermore, the new lock can integrate with Matter and various other smart home platforms, including Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home, among others, making home entry a seamless, connected experience.
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Bluetooth is Expected to Hold a Significant Market Share
- Bluetooth-enabled smart locks consume less energy than Wi-Fi-enabled smart locks, resulting in longer battery life. Most Bluetooth lock batteries can last for up to a year. A Bluetooth smart lock can link to a smartphone or computer without a hub or a Wi-Fi network. Bluetooth smart locks are ideal for use in domestic settings, where the user only needs to control the lock at home.
- In Japan, high smartphone penetration, greater use of new technologies, and technical advancements such as the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, and other benefits are expected to drive demand for Bluetooth locking systems. Furthermore, Bluetooth technology is credited with having a longer battery life and higher energy efficiency than Wi-Fi, which is a selling factor. According to JEITA, Japan's domestic smartphone shipments reached approximately 490 thousand units in December 2023. That month, smartphones constituted 73.4% of mobile phone shipments.
- Bluetooth smart locks are generally more affordable than other smart locks, such as those with Wi-Fi or biometric capabilities. This makes them accessible to a broader market segment, from cost-conscious consumers to small businesses. In addition, many smart locks are designed to be compatible with the specific types of doors and locks used in Japan, making installations straightforward and less invasive. This compatibility encourages more consumers to switch from traditional to smart locking systems.
- Smart locks, equipped with communication technologies such as Bluetooth, offer enhanced convenience. For instance, MIWA's Bluetooth-enabled locks, utilizing the MyFairPlus standard, ensure users are well-protected. Coupled with a PC-based system and a three-year warranty, MIWA guarantees the reliability and security of its products. MIWA's competitive pricing for smart locks starts at an accessible USD 175. The company's smart locks hold UL ratings and certifications, ensuring they meet the highest standards. Furthermore, the company provides a cylindrical lock designed for stormy weather conditions.
