Nice Group acquires Fibaro (Fibar Group S.A.), popular maker of Z-Wave sensors and smart-home hubs, shortly after acquiring Abode, a DIY security and home-automation company with professionally monitored alarm systems.

Aaron Starr, president of North American Cable Equipment (NACE) believes its support mechanisms and training can help CE pros run their businesses more effectively.

BeON Home, manufacturer of Bluetooth Low Energy smart light bulbs, has closed its operation.

Private Equity firm Hellman & Friedman acquires controlling stake in DIY security provider SimpliSafe. CE Pro’s Julie Jacobson reviews synergies with H&F portfolio companies SnapAV, Veritas (Security Direct) and HUB International insurance.

Buchan Consulting integrated an old hardwired Lutron HomeWorks system with new Z-Wave lighting and controllers to create one seamless Elan home-automation system for the guy who designed the iconic ‘Attack from Mars’ pinball machine.

CEDIA Tech Council podcast ponders the location-based VR, Apple’s new software updates, acoustical cameras that ‘see’ the noise and other emerging technologies.

Nortek says 2GIG Water Leak Detector is the first to provide dual-source protection against water leaks and flooding.

Alula Connect+ security and home-automation platform can be installed during construction at very low cost to homebuilder, allowing integration with built-in smart-home tech like Pella Insynctive windows and doors.

Report says Amazon is contemplating selling homeowners insurance alongside robots, security, home automation and other IoT devices. (Julie Jacobson / CE Pro)

Security and home-automation giant Vivint doubles down on Google, adding Google Wifi mesh networking, Google Home with voice control, and Nest Thermostat E to smart-home installs.