Helping customers in new and different ways is part of Zurich’s wider plans to continue investing in innovation and future technologies, in order to lead the charge in changing the nature of risk through the use of future tech. Almost one million homes became smarter during the course of 2015 in the UK, with four million households now having some form of Smart Home system.
Cocoon uses unique Subsound® technology to listen for infrasound - subtle, inaudible vibrations in the air caused by movement. Unlike audible sound, infrasound travels across rooms and multiple floors. Because of this, one Cocoon can look after the whole home - whether it’s a noisy inner-city flat or a secluded country home.
Using advanced machine learning, Cocoon is continually learning the unique sound signature of a home. Cocoon uses this knowledge to send alerts only when there are unusual patterns in what it detects, whether that’s a cracked pipe or a break-in. Cocoon alerts the owner with HD video so they can choose how to respond. It is self-arming and entirely managed through the iOS or Android app.
Cocoon puts the customer in control of their security, making it simple and hassle-free to protect their home.
According to the Association of British Insurers, escape of water claims make up 21% of domestic insurance claims and fire 13%. There were an estimated 743,000 incidents of domestic burglary in the year ending September 2015 (according to the ONS Crime Survey for England and Wales). With 76% of Brits admitting to ignoring burglar alarms (source) solutions like Cocoon, that put homeowners in control, offer greater peace of mind.
UK customers can purchase a Cocoon device at a discounted premium and also receive a 10% discount on their home insurance when purchased via an approved broker enabling customers to better protect their homes.
Helen Jales, Head of Innovation at Zurich, commented: “Smart devices for the house - for example, thermostats, leak detectors and security alarms - have the ability to help customers understand and manage risks to their home much more easily and quickly than ever before. Many are easy to install, allow earlier detection of a problem, and can send a notification to your mobile phone meaning that even if you are away, you will be notified of an issue. This is an exciting time to be partnering with such a pioneering business and we look forward to hearing how our customers use them.”
Sanjay Parekh, CEO and co-founder of Cocoon, added: "This partnership with Zurich helps us reward those taking a smarter approach to protect their home and loved ones. Cocoon offers a simple, intelligent way to help everyone look after their homes. Whether an inner-city flat or a country house, one Cocoon protects the whole home.
“Cocoon’s Subsound® technology, using machine learning and sound wave detection, is complete home security for the digital age. Working together, Zurich and Cocoon offer the kind of assurance and protection needed for our increasingly connected homes. It puts home owners in control and means everyone can feel safe. We’re excited to be working with one of the most trusted names in home insurance to re-envisage home security.”
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