After experiencing several issues at his own rental properties, including noise complaints, broken items, and uninvited guests, Adalbert Hutter was determined to tackle these problems head-on.
Leveraging his expertise in tech, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and electronics, he partnered with Max Tesanovic to start Cappsule, a privacy-focused solution that monitors ambient space and individual assets in short-term rental properties listed on the likes of Airbnb and VRBO through its AI-based platform.
“We built Cappsule to solve the key challenges experienced renting through Airbnb without invading guests’ privacy,” Hutter said. “We wanted something easy to set up, adaptable to different settings and spaces, detect all the right things, and generate alerts automatically. We wanted to help hosts deliver an exceptional experience for their guests.”
Cappsule is equipped with highly intelligent sensors that detect and alert the host to potential problems, such as parties or excess occupancy without violating guests’ privacy. To date, it is the only rental management platform that can monitor both the ambient space and individual assets. It has “Stay” tags that can be attached to fixed items like TVs, artwork, or doors that should remain closed, immediately letting the host know if an item is moved, impacted, or removed from the property and “Go” tags that can be attached to keys or portable items used in the property, like bikes or surfboards to monitor location. Hosts can also create a maintenance schedule based on usage.
Cappsule is designed to not only benefits hosts but also to tenants. The privacy-focused technology ensures guests can stay safe and secure without feeling monitored or uncomfortable. Guests receive alerts for things like noise levels before the host, so it gives guests a chance to remediate before any awkward conversations occur. The HQ also features a guest interface where they can see details of their stay, local recommendations, text their host and more.
Cappsule is working with design agency 4Design on the product’s final release. The company has also received venture capital funding from Brisbane-based VC Australian Silicon Valley (ASV), valuing the company at AUD$12 million. Beta trials have been conducted with several individual hosts and property management groups, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive.
“We’re thrilled with the positive response we’ve received from our beta trials, and we’re excited to introduce Cappsule to the market,” co-founder Max Tesanovic said. “We believe that our privacy-focused solution will be a game-changer for the short-term rental industry.”.
