On this episode of Grit Daily Startup Show, John Biggs sat down with Mahboud Zabetian, the founder of Kinisium, to discuss the hardware product that helps people keep tabs on their sensitive items. This compact device, known as Kini, is designed to discreetly alert users when an object is tampered with. It’s a sleek solution for people looking to protect sensitive or potentially dangerous items, such as firearms, alcohol, or important personal belongings.
The idea behind Kini is simple: place the device near something that shouldn’t be moved, and if it detects vibrations or motion, it immediately sends a text to the user. The best part is, unlike traditional alarm systems that notify authorities or security companies, Kini leaves the response entirely in the hands of its owner. Along with the fact that it does not collect data and cannot be triangulated, it is a private solution to minimize the risk of unnecessary escalation while providing instant awareness of any disturbance.
The inspiration for Kini came from a personal story involving one of the founder’s daughters, who had attended a party where kids were able to access firearms without adult supervision. This sparked a conversation about the dangers of unsecured weapons, particularly in homes where children might inadvertently stumble upon them. The situation resonated with many, as stories of kids accessing firearms — and the tragic consequences that sometimes follow — are all too common. Kinisium was developed with the belief that a small device could help prevent such accidents and possibly save lives.
So how does it work? Well, Kini is able to detect vibrations using an accelerometer, similar to those found in smartphones. Moreover, it’s versatile, easily attaching to items like gun safes, liquor cabinets, or even musical instruments. As soon as movement is detected, the owner is informed via text, allowing them to take action before anyone else is aware of the disturbance.
But even with a well-engineered product, the road to market hasn’t been without challenges. One of the most significant hurdles has been marketing the device. Advertisements that include images of firearms or alcohol often get flagged and rejected by auto-filters on major platforms, limiting their ability to promote the product effectively. Finding creative ways around this issue has become part of their marketing strategy. That is why, beyond online ads, they’ve had success pitching directly to gun dealers and attending trade shows where they can demonstrate the product in person.
Looking ahead, Kinisium has plans to expand into products that cater to other safety concerns, particularly for the elderly. One new feature, called “stasis mode,” notifies users when an object hasn’t been moved for a certain period — perfect for ensuring that medications are being taken on time. This idea stems from requests by users who want to monitor elderly family members and ensure they’re maintaining their daily routines. Kinisium also plans to launch a new product for fall detection, aimed at offering more discreet monitoring for families who want to stay involved without relying on emergency services right away.
Pricing for Kini starts at $65, with discounts available for multi-packs. Currently, the product is available on the Kinisium website as well as Amazon.
