Smart Lock Maker Level Gutted as Founders Exit — Assa Abloy Absorbs Brand Into Kwikset
Overview
In a significant restructuring move, smart lock manufacturer Level Home — known for its flush-mounted, minimalistic smart locks — has been effectively gutted. According to a source speaking to The Verge, the majority of Level Home’s staff has been laid off, and the brand is being folded into Kwikset, a well-known lock manufacturer that also falls under the Swedish security giant Assa Abloy. The founders have exited the company. Assa Abloy, however, states that it will continue to develop and support Level locks.
Timeline and 2026 Context
- 2022: Assa Abloy acquired Level Home for an undisclosed sum, with the goal of integrating its premium smart lock technology into its broader portfolio.
- 2024–2025: The work-from-home revolution and rising competition from brands like August (now owned by Nortek) and Schlage’s Encode series squeezed Level’s market share. As of early 2026, the smart home security market is increasingly commoditized, with a shift toward Matter-compatible platforms and subscription-based monitoring services.
- 2026: The latest round of layoffs and founder departures signals that Assa Abloy is streamlining operations. By absorbing Level into Kwikset’s established supply chain and distribution network, the parent company aims to reduce costs and refocus on mass-market, interoperable smart locks rather than a niche premium brand.
Key Implications for Consumers and Industry
- Product Support: Existing Level Lock owners can expect continued firmware updates and customer service via Kwikset, at least in the near term. However, long-term innovation specific to the Level trademark may slow.
- Matter Compatibility: Level’s products have not yet fully embraced Matter, the universal smart home standard. Under Kwikset’s stewardship, future models will likely be Matter-certified to align with 2026 industry expectations.
- Ecosystem Integration: Users of Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home should continue to experience basic compatibility, but advanced features like geo-fencing or HomeKey may be deprioritized.
What This Means for the Smart Lock Market
The consolidation of Level into Kwikset reflects a broader trend in the smart home sector: large security conglomerates are absorbing smaller, design-forward startups. While this can sometimes lead to innovation being sidelined in favor of cost-cutting, it can also accelerate standardization and mass-market adoption. For Level fans, the brand’s future will likely look more like mainstream smart lock features — less premium luxury, more reliable, affordable integration.
Originally reported by Jennifer Pattison Tuohy for The Verge. Updated for 2026 context.
via The Verge