Smart Lock Maker Level Home Faces Major Layoffs

It appears there's been a significant shift at Level Home, the company that impressed us with its ability to seamlessly integrate smart lock technology into traditional-looking deadbolts. According to sources close to the situation, Assa Abloy, the parent company, has laid off the majority of Level Home's staff. This move effectively folds the smart lock business into the existing Kwikset brand.

Level Home's defining innovation was its clever design, which managed to hide the battery, motor, and all the necessary electronics within the deadbolt itself. This approach allowed for smart functionality without compromising the aesthetic of a conventional lock, a feature that really set them apart in the smart home market. The news comes from an individual familiar with the restructuring who spoke to The Verge on condition of anonymity, having been affected by the layoffs.

This person shared an audio recording of a meeting where Assa Abloy North America's CTO, Peter Boriskin, and the Head of North American HR, Kimberly Cummins, informed employees that their positions were eliminated, effective immediately. The layoffs are described as part of a larger restructuring effort within Assa Abloy. While the exact details of this broader plan aren't fully public, the integration into Kwikset suggests a strategy to consolidate resources and streamline operations under a more established brand name.

For smart home enthusiasts who appreciated Level Home's unique approach, this news might come as a disappointment. The future of Level's specific product lines and their integration into Kwikset's offerings remains to be seen. However, the underlying technology and the drive for discreet smart home solutions are likely to continue, albeit under a different corporate umbrella. We'll be keeping an eye on how this transition unfolds and what it means for the smart lock market moving forward.