ABB is set to become a significant player in delivery of smart home products based on Matter and Thread after buying Eve Systems, a German smart home automation provider.
Munich-based Eve Systems, which has operations in Europe and the USA, offers a range of consumer-facing products tailored to the retrofit market. ABB hopes to leverage this to accelerate its delivery of safe, smart and energy efficient homes and buildings.
Crucially the acquisition boosts ABB’s place as a specialist in smart home products based on the Matter and Thread interoperating standard and wireless connectivity technology.
ABB also cites an increase in consumer interest in energy efficiency as well as authorities looking to incentivising retrofitting of existing building stock, as a drive behind the purchase.
Established in 1999, Eve Systems’ portfolio includes a range of home automation, energy management, security, and appliance monitoring devices. With its approximately 50 employees, Eve is described as a pioneer in the Matter connectivity standard which enables smart home products to be fully interoperable, irrespective of the manufacturer and user operating system, via Thread wireless technology.
Mike Mustapha, president of ABB Electrification’s Smart Buildings division said: “Our focus is on being the best and most comprehensive provider of smart technology and innovation for our global customers. Matter and Thread, in which Eve is a leader, is a game changing development for the uptake of smart home technology. It allows different devices and services to integrate flawlessly, intuitively, and securely, making it possible for people to manage their energy, and their surroundings conveniently and safely. It is an exciting point of growth for the industry and this acquisition brings our smart buildings commitment directly to the consumer.”
Jerome Gackel, CEO of Eve, said: “Building on our heritage, pace of innovation and brand, we will now be combining our passion, agility and experience with ABB’s international calibre, reputation, and expertise to keep growing Eve as a global leader.”
Markus Fest, founder of Eve, said: “Our teams at Eve Systems have worked hard to earn our status as innovators in smart home technology by solving key challenges with a first mover advantage. We have collaborated closely with the technology community to develop and harness Matter and Thread technology and protocols. This acquisition is a validation of our achievements so far.”
The acquisition is effective immediately with Eve Systems becoming an independently operated brand in the Building and Home Automation Solutions portfolio within ABB Electrification’s Smart Buildings Division.