In a significant development for home security, Kevin Hartz and Jack Abraham launched their startup Sauron in 2024, aiming to create an advanced security system for affluent clients following personal experiences with inadequate solutions. The company secured $18 million in funding from notable investors, including executives from Flock Safety and Palantir, as well as defense tech firms like 8VC and Atomic.
Despite initial expectations to release their product in early 2025, Sauron is still in the development stage. New CEO Maxime “Max” Bouvat-Merlin, who joined last month after nearly a decade at Sonos, acknowledged that products may not reach consumers until late 2026 at the earliest. He emphasized the importance of refining the technology, including the selection of sensors and the operational framework of the system.
Bouvat-Merlin outlined a phased rollout strategy, integrating various components such as AI software, smart cameras, and a concierge service. He draws parallels between Sauron and his previous experience at Sonos, noting both companies' focus on high-end customers and community-driven growth.