@eriktorenberg, thanks a lot for the post.
I launched Nucleus after getting frustrated searching for an intercom for our home; every system on the market cost $3,000+ and was ancient. We decided that by using Wi-Fi and touchscreens, we can make the whole system a lot better AND cheaper. And because it's Internet-connected, you can also use it to control your smart home either via the wall panel or simply by voice activation.
@jfrankel13 awesome stuff Jonathan! a couple q's:
1) How does a Harvard law school student start building in the IoT space?
2) What's one thing you want people to know about the IoT space that they don't already know?
Thanks @eriktorenberg!
1) Spotting a gap in the marketplace. I have 3 kids and wanted an intercom, and there is literally not a single one on the market that is good and affordable. I also have a CS degree, so I knew this could be solved technologically.
2) I think everyone knows this subconsciously, but in 10 years every home will have Internet-connected screens on every wall. We're just hastening the process.
This looks awesome. It feels like the natural evolution of the intercom system. What do you think the average number of units will be? (really, what is the price point you expect for a typical family ~$750?) A related question on timing: is the maturation of tablet and computer industries, reducing the component part pricing to the point where this is economically feasible for the first time?
Is there a way to automatically turn off the cameras on a schedule? For example at night, or maybe even completely for some rooms? I think there is probably a lot of people that would love the communication element, but not like the unintentional surveillance element. If the thinking is that you want to know what room someone might be in, you could use person detection without needing to display surveillance footage.
@EAWharton Excellent questions. To respond to the various points:
a) we have seen a bimodal distribution where there is a spike around 2-3 units and another spike around 7-8. Very few people ordering 4-6.
b) re: components - you nailed it. We are able to use low-cost, high-quality tablet components for Nucleus.
c) No current method for turning off camera on a schedule, but that's a great idea. We also have a built-in physical shutter for the camera so you can be assured that no one is watching when you want extra privacy
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