Atlanta’s New Smart Kitchen Knob Aims to Enhance Safety for All
In the bustling city of Atlanta, where the aroma of home-cooked meals often fills the air, a startup has stepped up to tackle a common yet critical concern: kitchen fires. It’s a fear many homeowners and renters share, whether it’s caused by a curious pet accidentally bumping a gas knob or someone walking away from a hot stove. This everyday risk is precisely what Ome, a local kitchen device startup, has been addressing, and now they’re ready to take kitchen safety to the next level.
The Launch of a New Era in Kitchen Safety
Today, Ome has officially launched their next-generation smart knob, designed to enhance safety in a variety of homes. Unlike their first model, this newest knob is compatible with a broader range of stoves, including both gas and electric options. One of the standout features is its capability to automatically turn off the stove, providing that extra layer of security. Whether it’s a busy parent or an elderly relative cooking up dinner, this new tool aims to streamline kitchen safety.
A Design That Meets Modern Needs
The updated knob not only boasts a sleeker design but also collects valuable data on stove usage. This feature is particularly beneficial for the more than 14 million older adults in the U.S. who live alone, with a staggering 90% wanting to age in place. In an era where smart devices control our lighting, thermostats, and security systems, Ome is bringing that level of connectivity into the kitchen.
Supporting Caregivers and Families
In an effort to reach more users, Ome is targeting partnerships with senior living facilities and management groups overseeing multi-unit buildings. They’re also keeping a keen eye on the “sandwich generation,” those juggling the needs of aging parents while caring for young children. Ome’s founder and CEO, Akshita Iyer, expressed the importance of their technology saying, “Our system not only reduces cooking-related hazards but also provides a comprehensive dashboard that allows caregivers and property operators to monitor and control all major appliances from a single interface.”
A Journey of Growth and Innovation
Ome’s journey has been remarkable. They caught the spotlight with their appearances on shows like Shark Tank and participated in the Atlanta Startup Battle back in 2019. By 2021, they had successfully launched their first smart knob, setting the stage for their current release. Iyer, a Duke University graduate, made the strategic move to Atlanta this summer to foster closer connections with their investors and growing team of three full-time employees.
After years of diligent development and testing, the launch of the new knob symbolizes the culmination of hard work and valuable lessons learned about running a manufacturing-heavy startup. An important takeaway for Iyer was the need to find a reliable manufacturing partner, which they found in the Atlanta-based East West Manufacturing.
A Bright Future for Kitchen Safety
As Ome rolls out this innovative product, they are not just aiming to improve individual homes but looking to transform kitchen safety nationwide. With a blend of technology and thoughtful design, they are providing peace of mind for families and caregivers alike. The implications of smarter kitchen products can lead to safer homes and, ultimately, a reduction in preventable kitchen fires. As the love for home cooking continues to flourish, innovations like Ome’s smart knob are set to make kitchens more secure and user-friendly for everyone.
