Next-Generation Camera-Integrated Smart Lock ‘Aku’ Launches on Makuake to Address Concerns of Child-Rearing and Dual-Income Households

The Era Where “Keys Alone” Are Insufficient

While smart locks have rapidly gained popularity, many existing products primarily focus on the convenience of “inside the key” functionalities such as locking and unlocking via smartphones. However, several challenges at the entrance remained unaddressed, including:

• Anxiety about unknown visitors.

• Security concerns during nighttime or when away from home.

• Confirming children’s safe return.

• The hassle of responding to deliveries and visitors.

This indicates that while keys became more convenient, fundamental anxieties at the entrance persisted. Aku was developed with the understanding that “the entrance is not a place that can be fully managed by a key alone.”

Three Essential Functions Integrated into One Device

Previously, ensuring entrance security and convenience often required combining multiple devices: a smart lock, an intercom, and a security camera. Aku integrates all these functions into a single unit, enabling users to “confirm, converse, and unlock” directly from their smartphone.

Key Features of Aku

Camera-Integrated Smart Lock

The real-time view of the entrance can be checked via a smartphone, eliminating the anxiety of not knowing who is at the door.

Two-Way Video Call

Visitors can be directly conversed with from any location, making it unnecessary to physically open the door.

Supports Fingerprint, Passcode, and App Unlocking

This feature enables a lifestyle free from carrying physical keys, offering various unlocking methods to suit each family member.

AI Human Sensor

Suspicious movements are detected, triggering immediate notifications to the smartphone, providing peace of mind for security-conscious households.

No Construction Required, Rental-Friendly

Aku’s design eliminates the need to drill holes in the door, making it easily installable even in rental properties.

High Interest from Dual-Income and Child-Rearing Households

User surveys conducted prior to the launch revealed that over 70% of interested individuals belong to child-rearing or dual-income households. The most common feedback indicated a desire to monitor children’s return, concerns about night-time visitors, and a wish for easier entrance handling. Aku is designed not only for convenience but also as a supportive presence for family security.

Ease of Introduction and Post-Purchase Assurance

Aku has been designed to counter the common concern that high-functional smart locks are difficult to install. There are no monthly or subscription fees, ensuring no additional costs after purchase. Furthermore, since no drilling is required, it can be safely installed in rental properties. An installation guide is available via a YouTube video, allowing potential buyers to visualize the setup process before purchase.

YouTube Installation Guide: https://youtu.be/lRsPc1xJZTI?si=lfsxK05vki-Ucn7

Additionally, a one-year manufacturer’s warranty for normal use is included, providing assurance for first-time smart lock users.

Why Makuake for Pre-Sale?

GAIN views crowdfunding not merely as a sales channel but as a platform to develop the product collaboratively with users. Feedback regarding Japanese housing conditions, actual usage patterns, and pre/post-purchase concerns from supporters will be incorporated into future product improvements and expansions.

Makuake Pre-Sale Details

• Launch Date and Time: February 16, 2026 (Monday) 18:00 JST

• Sales Period: February 16 – March 30, 2026

• Sales Format: Makuake pre-sale (before general release)

Special benefits, such as a 24-hour limited 30% off return, are available exclusively during the Makuake pre-sale.

Future Developments

Aku will continue to be refined to suit Japanese living environments and will see further enhancements in its security and monitoring functionalities, evolving as a product that updates “entrance security.” Through crowdfunding, Aku will integrate user feedback and adapt to Japanese living conditions. Future plans include further improvements in convenience and strengthening security performance.

Product Information & Contact

• Product Name: Aku

• Sales Page: Makuake Project Page

• Operated by: GAIN

• Inquiries: info@gain-official.com