The integration industry thrives on innovation. While established giants often dominate headlines, some of the most exciting advancements come from new players entering the market. This spirit of discovery was on full display during Day 1 of the inaugural CEDIA Expo/CIX PitchFest.
Conducted in a “Shark Tank” style format, the event provided a platform for new exhibitors to showcase their solutions directly to the industry. For Day 1 of the CEDIA Expo/CIX PitchFest, six companies delivered tight pitches to impress a panel of industry judges and a live audience of integrators and consultants. The presentations highlighted a diverse range of solutions aimed at solving real-world problems for commercial and residential integrators alike. After a competitive round, one company emerged as the day’s finalist.
Here is a recap of the technology, the pitches and the standout winner from Day 1 of PitchFest!
BTX Window Automation: Day 1 Finalist of CEDIA Expo/CIX PitchFest
Taking the top spot for the day was BTX Window Automation, a Dallas-based custom shading manufacturer with a 40-year history in commercial and hospitality spaces. Ben Woodall, general manager, delivered a compelling presentation that focused heavily on partnership and technological convergence.
The centerpiece of the BTX pitch was the “Smart by Bond” solution. Co-developed with Bond, this technology embeds the popular Bond bridge infrastructure directly into the BTX motorization platform. For commercial AV integrators, this native integration simplifies the deployment of motorized shades significantly. It offers true RF real-time state feedback, device power management and over-the-air updates.
Crucially, it streamlines integration with third-party control systems like Josh.ai, Control4 and URC. Woodall explained that installers can pre-commission networks and pair everything easily, bridging the gap between shading and whole-building automation.
The judges selected BTX Window Automation as the finalist not just for the hardware, but for its commitment to the integration channel. “We ultimately felt that BTX Window Automation represents a very compelling product that offers a credible channel-focused alternative to established shade brands,” noted the judging panel. They specifically cited the “Smart by Bond” readiness as a meaningful step forward for reliable control and integration.
The Contenders: A Showcase of Innovation
While BTX secured the finalist spot, five other companies delivered impressive pitches that demonstrated the breadth of innovation occurring in the residential and commercial technology sector.
Deako: Modular Smart Lighting
Derek Richardson, founder and CEO of Deako, pitched his company as “the biggest smart lighting company you’ve never heard of.” With a presence in over 350,000 homes, Deako aims to bridge the gap between standard wiring and smart control without the complexity of hubs or custom cabling.
Deako’s core innovation is its plug-and-play system. Integrators install a standard backplate into a standard junction box. From there, they can insert a low-cost, “dumb” rocker switch. Later, if the homeowner wants to upgrade, that switch can be popped out and replaced with a smart dimmer or switch in seconds — without touching a single wire. This modular approach allows builders and integrators to offer “smart-ready” homes that can scale with the client’s budget. The system works locally without the internet but offers cloud connectivity for remote access via a single Wi-Fi-connected device.
Dio Technologies: The Minimalist Audio Solution
Addressing the complexity of modern audio distribution, Akarsh Vinod, founder of Dio Technologies, introduced the Dio Node. Vinod described the product as a “minimalist Wi-Fi speaker” designed to create an audio-first web experience.
The Dio Node differentiates itself by eliminating the “middle layer” of proprietary apps and hubs. Instead, it operates entirely on the local Wi-Fi network, leveraging existing frameworks like Apple AirPlay 2 and UPnP. This allows users to stream audio directly from their devices — whether it’s a podcast, social media feed, or music — without navigating a clunky third-party interface.
For integrators, the appeal lies in simplicity and privacy. The speakers set up in under a minute and keep data local to the home. Vinod also announced a new dealer program, positioning the Dio Node as an accessible multi-room audio solution for clients who may not be ready for a rack-mounted, architectural audio system.
MyTVArt: Concealment with Customization
As displays get larger, the demand for concealing them grows. Evan Wohlmuth of MyTVArt presented a solution that uses real canvas prints to hide televisions, distinguishing the product from digital art modes found in consumer displays.
MyTVArt offers three distinct hardware solutions:
- Original Cover: Mounts directly to the TV (ideal for articulating arms).
- Wood Frame: A wall-mounted solution that fully encases the TV with side walls.
- Custom Enclosure: A mechanism designed for architectural niches and cabinetry.
The system uses a motorized roller to retract a giclée canvas print when the TV is in use. Wolmuth highlighted the flexibility of the product, noting that integrators can use stock gallery art or upload custom client photos. The mechanism can be automated via 12V triggers or IR, making it a straightforward add-on for media rooms where aesthetics are paramount.
OnFILTER: Industrial-Grade Power Protection
Vladimir Kraz, founder of OnFILTER, brought a highly technical focus to the event, pitching clean power solutions derived from the semiconductor and aerospace industries. OnFilter specializes in electromagnetic interference (EMI) filtration.
Kraz argued that standard surge protectors are insufficient for modern electronics. While a typical surge protector might stop a massive spike (over 400V), it often ignores lower-level transients (e.g., 300V) that can still degrade sensitive AV equipment and reduce its lifespan.
OnFILTER’s new AB 2020 FG filters are designed for power entry circuit breaker boxes. They clean both the power and ground lines, blocking EMI and “killing” transient voltage spikes that standard MOVs (Metal Oxide Varistors) miss. Kraz presented data showing a 300V spike reduced to a negligible 7V bump, positioning the product as essential insurance for high-performance audio and video systems.
Rithum Home: The Smart Switch Evolution
Rounding out the presentations was Ryan Ovens, CEO of Rithum Home. He showcased the Rithum Switch Pro, a smart touch panel designed to replace standard light switches while offering robust control over third-party devices.
The Rithum Switch serves as a dedicated control point for lighting, audio, and climate. It integrates natively with major platforms including Sonos, Philips Hue, Lutron, and Control4. Evans demonstrated the device’s “scene screen,” which allows for macro-based control, as well as specific screens for audio zones and thermostat adjustments.
A key feature for the Pro model is its intercom capability, which supports SIP audio and RTSP video, allowing it to function as a door station monitor. The device is PoE-powered, ensuring reliability and configurations are handled almost entirely on the screen itself, reducing setup time for technicians.
A Look Ahead
Indeed, the variety of products showcased on Day 1 of the CEDIA Expo/CIX PitchFest reflects a healthy, evolving market. From the granular details of power filtration to the user-facing elegance of motorized art, these new exhibitors are finding unique ways to add value to an integrator’s toolkit.
Editor’s note: An earlier version of this article first appeared on our sister site, CEPRO.com.
