Strobo

Strobo Inc. is a Japanese electronics company established with the mission to resolve challenges in physical living spaces through the application of software and internet technology. Founded in February 2015 by Akito Gyoten, the company operates as an IoT home appliance manufacturer, committed to developing and manufacturing its hardware and software in-house. This integrated approach allows Strobo to move beyond the constraints of computer and smartphone displays, aiming to create new, impactful experiences within daily life. The founder, Akito Gyoten, a graduate of the University of Tokyo's Faculty of Engineering, had prior entrepreneurial experience, having started an internet home appliance company called "Pluto" during his university years. His personal experience of being chided by his wife for leaving windows or doors unlocked was the catalyst for developing the company's flagship product.

The company's primary offering is "leafee," a smart security service designed to address security concerns for homes and offices. The leafee system comprises smart sensors, cameras, and a mobile application. Its product line includes the "leafee hub," a central unit with a loud buzzer; "leafee mag," a magnetic sensor for detecting open doors or windows; and "leafee move," a motion sensor. The system is complemented by indoor and outdoor security cameras, such as the 360-degree view indoor camera and a weatherproof outdoor model. A key value proposition of the leafee service is its accessibility and ease of installation, requiring no tools and making it suitable for renters. Customers can sign up via their smartphones and begin using the service from the next day.

Strobo's business model is centered on a subscription service for its leafee security system, with plans starting from a low monthly fee. This makes home security more affordable and less of a financial burden for households and small businesses. The company primarily serves individual consumers concerned about home security, particularly those in rental properties who cannot make permanent alterations. Additionally, Strobo is expanding its reach through business-to-business channels, forming partnerships with small and medium-sized security companies. By offering leafee as a cost-effective equipment solution, Strobo enables these partner firms to enhance their service offerings without significant capital investment. The company has secured funding, including a JPY 150 million round in March 2018 from investors such as CROOZ and Japan Finance Corporation. Akito Gyoten's leadership has been recognized, notably being named in Forbes' '30 Under 30 Asia' in 2018.

Keywords: home security, smart home, IoT devices, security sensors, security cameras, subscription service, property technology, rental security, DIY security, mobile application, motion sensors, access control, residential security, office security, B2B partnerships, electronics manufacturing, hardware startup, Akito Gyoten, leafee, smart security