Amazon to Invest $100m in Touchscreen Intercom Nucleus

The world’s largest online retailer has announced plans to invest $100 million in a startup company that produces touchscreen intercom systems.

Amazon, Inc. announced the news earlier this month, leading a $5.6 million investment round in Nucleus. Other notable investors include Greylock Partners, FF Angel, Liquid  Ventures and SV Angel. So, what exactly is Nucleus and why is Amazon placing such a large bet on this startup tech company?

Nucleus isn’t just another fly-by-night intercom system; it’s a “smart” intercom. According to various press releases, the touchscreen-compatible intercom system allows users to communicate between different rooms, houses and buildings — all while using their smartphone or tablet computer. Nucleus works in conjunction with Android and Apple iOS apps, meaning users can control the intercom system via their mobile device. This, of course, opens the doors to a whole new world of possibilities.

So, how can the Nucleus intercom system be used exactly? Well, if you are away at work and want to check to see how the babysitter is doing with your child, you can contact him or her via your smartphone. The intercom system eliminates the otherwise restrictive boundaries of traditional intercom systems, allowing users to communicate via their Android or Apple smartphone.

When speaking about the investment, Nucleus CEO Jonathan Frankel said his company’s intercom system seeks to bring families closer by providing greater ease and convenience of communication. Frankel also noted that Amazon has been a top supporter since “day one,” and that the e-retailer recognizes the true value of Nucleus for families throughout the country.

“It’s incredible to receive this level of support in such a short period of time,” said Jonathan Frankel, co-founder and CEO of Nucleus. “It speaks to the importance of our shared vision: Bringing families closer together with ease and convenience through world-class technology. Amazon has been a stand-out supporter since day one and recognizes the value Nucleus is bringing to families nationwide, and the rapid market traction we’re seeing within our growing community.”

Of course, the Nucleus is still in its early stages of inception. The company was founded back in 2014, and since then, it has worked around the clock to turn its vision of a workable smart intercom system into a reality. With the recent funding it has received from Amazon and other investors, it’s no longer a question of “if” Nucleus will become a workable product, rather it’s a matter of “when.”

What do you think of the touchscreen-enabled Nucleus intercom system?