Google bets $100M on AI security cameras.

Verkada hit $5.8B valuation in CapitalG-led round — up $1.3B since February. The startup crossed $1B in annualized bookings.

• $100M funding led by Google's CapitalG
• $5.8B valuation, $1B+ bookings
• 60+ AI features launched in September
• 30,000 customers, 20M+ images processed hourly

How it happened:
• Filip Kaliszan couldn't find good home cameras (2016)
• Partnered with Meraki co-founder for hardware expertise
• Offered free re-installations to win early customers
• Expanded through channel partners
• Launched 60+ AI features to beat legacy players

Takeaway: Legacy hardware markets are ripe for AI disruption when founders solve their own problems first.

Source: The Tech Buzz