Vivint

About Vivint

Vivint, originally APX Alarm Security Solutions Inc., was founded in 1999 by Todd Pedersen and Keith Nellesen. Pedersen, who had previously started a pest control company, ventured into the security systems market, and this move laid the groundwork for what would become a major player in the smart home industry. The company was rebranded as Vivint in 2011, a name derived from "vive," meaning "to live," and "intelligent," reflecting its new focus on smart home technology.

Vivint operates on a subscription-based business model, providing customers with smart home and security systems. This model includes equipment leasing and a recurring service fee for professional monitoring and support. The company's target market is residential homeowners in North America, and it has expanded to serve over two million customers. Vivint's business strategy is built on a vertically integrated model that encompasses hardware, software, sales, installation, and customer support, which allows for a high degree of control over the customer experience. In 2022, Vivint was acquired by NRG Energy for $2.8 billion, a move that integrated Vivint's smart home technology with NRG's energy services.

The company offers a comprehensive suite of products that can be controlled through a single mobile app. These products include smart security cameras with features like Smart Deter technology, which uses light and sound to deter intruders. Other offerings include video doorbells, smart locks, thermostats, and various sensors for doors, windows, and motion detection. Vivint's platform allows for the integration of third-party devices, such as Google Home, further enhancing its smart home ecosystem.