I recently talked to Chris Lehnen of iRoom iO about the company’s growth, new product line and brand redevelopment. Part 1.
Maureen Jenson: iRoom has rebranded as iRoom iO in 2020. What’s the purpose for rebranding?
Chris Lehnen: We’ve relaunched the iRoom brand as iRoom iO to tie in with our new iO Smart Control line. iO Smart Control is a brand new category for smart Light & Shade Control. Integrators will find iO Smart Control a useful solution on retrofit projects or anytime a control wire is missing. We’re excited to get the new line to market before the end of the year. 2020 also marks a new phase for iRoom, as we’ve merged with German manufacturer, Eltako. Eltako brings 75 years of manufacturing experience to the organization, providing us with greater resources for product development, marketing, manufacturing & logistics.
MJ: What else is new for 2020/2021?
CL: Amazing new solutions for docking iPads. Additionally, our US based team is in place to support our partners in North America. We can’t wait to get back out on the road to meet with our friends and show them our new solutions.
MJ: iRoom got its start with high end Docks for Apple’s iPad. Can you elaborate on new developments in this category?
CL: touchDock is the newest generation of our original in-wall motorized iPad Dock. touchDock allows for the removal of the iPad through motorization. It’s really cool. Added features include an integrated keypad and a locking mechanism for the iPad. The keypad can be customized by the Integrator to allow for shortcuts to common functions such as light on, light off, shade up, shade down, etc. Macros can even be assigned for further simplicity. The locking mechanism disables the motor, which secures the iPad in the Dock where theft is a concern. Earlier models have been especially popular in Commercial applications, such as conference rooms, classrooms, restaurants, financial institutions and retail. The fit & finish of touchDock is beautiful. We use glass & aluminum to match the finish of the iPad and touchDock mounts flush in the wall for added aesthetic.
iTop On-Wall is our new universal mount for Apple’s iPad. One big objection to using an iPad for control is the fact that Apple will change the iPad as new models are developed. We’ve overcome that objection by developing a Dock that accommodates all iPads. Our adjustable charging connector allows the user to accommodate any of the current iPads by sliding the connector up or down. We even accommodate iPad Pro and the newest iPad Air with the optional USB-C connector. iTop On-Wall also features the same integrated keypad and locking mechanism included on touchDock. Designers really enjoy the 10 different color combinations available for iTop On-Wall. They’re stunning.
Stay tuned next week, when we talk to Chris about the iRoom iO integrator advantage, lighting and shading control and more! Part 2 here