iControl Networks acquires creator of 'Piper'

Connected home technology provider iControl Networks this week announced that it has acquired Blacksumac Inc., creator of the Piper all-in-one, Wi-Fi-enabled home awareness and automation device. According to a statement, the acquisition will enable iControl to expand its connected home management offerings to new markets, including rental properties, multiple-dwelling residences as well as international customers.

Piper is a self-managed, self-monitored device that combines HD panoramic video, home automation and environmental sensors into a single product that users interact with on their Internet-connected devices. 

“Piper’s unique product offering appeals to a large and mostly underserved consumer market segment,” said Bob Hagerty, CEO of iControl. “We remain focused on advancing our connected home management platforms for service providers and growing our connected life ecosystem via the iControl OpenHome Partner Program. At the same time, we are excited to expand into new, untapped markets that will bring us one step closer to our vision of a home management solution for every household, so people worldwide spend less time managing their lives and more time living them.”

"We are incredibly excited that Piper is joining forces with iControl, and look forward to bringing iControl's ecosystem to the next level,” said Russell Ure, CEO of Blacksumac. "We designed Piper to serve the needs of users who typically would not have access to home awareness and automation, or those who are still learning about the technology and its benefits. With iControl’s proven infrastructure and industry-wide reputation, we believe Piper will grow to serve a global, emerging market."

The Piper team will remain located in Ottawa, Ontario.