In this episode, I speak with Oscar Hedaya, founder of Space, about how smart safes are redefining home security through modern technology. We explore Oscar’s entrepreneurial journey and how his experiences led to rethinking a traditionally overlooked household product for today’s connected lifestyles. Our conversation highlights the innovative features of the Space smart safe, including a touchscreen interface, motion detection, app connectivity, and the PanicPin emergency alert system. Oscar explains why consumer expectations have shifted toward app-integrated devices and why usability must remain front and center, even as products become more advanced. We also discuss the realities of building and scaling a hardware startup and the growing role smart safes can play in seamlessly enhancing modern home security. Thanks for listening!

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In Episode 668 of Home Gadget Geeks, Jim Collison is joined by Oscar Hedaya, founder of Space Safe, for an in-depth conversation on how smart safes are transforming one of the most traditional and overlooked categories in home security. What begins as a discussion about a single product quickly expands into a broader exploration of how thoughtful technology, user-centered design, and modern expectations are reshaping everyday household items.

Oscar shares his entrepreneurial background, tracing his path from early work on touchscreen gloves to ventures in electric mobility, and how those experiences influenced his approach to product design. A personal incident involving theft became the catalyst for questioning why home safes had seen so little innovation over the years. That moment led to the creation of Space, with a clear goal: build a safe that not only secures valuables, but also communicates, adapts, and fits naturally into modern, connected lifestyles.

The conversation dives deep into the features that distinguish a smart safe from its traditional counterparts. Oscar explains how the Space safe incorporates a large touchscreen interface, motion detection, internal and external cameras, and real-time notifications through a companion app. One of the standout innovations discussed is PanicPin, a discreet safety feature that allows users to unlock the safe while simultaneously sending an emergency alert — a design choice that reflects real-world scenarios rather than theoretical use cases. Throughout the discussion, Oscar emphasizes that many of these features were driven directly by customer feedback, reinforcing Space’s commitment to iterative, user-informed development.

Jim and Oscar broaden the discussion to examine the evolving smart-home landscape, noting how consumer expectations have shifted toward app-integrated devices, especially following the pandemic. Even users who once resisted “smart” features now expect visibility, alerts, and remote insights into the products they own. At the same time, Oscar stresses the importance of balance — advanced technology must remain approachable and reliable, particularly for products tied to safety and security.

The episode also explores the expanding role of smart safes beyond simple storage. Oscar outlines use cases ranging from securing valuables and sensitive documents to managing medications, firearms, and shared-access scenarios such as Airbnb rentals or small businesses. Looking ahead, Space envisions a broader ecosystem that includes multiple safe sizes, advanced user management, and integrations with other smart-home platforms, positioning the safe as an active participant in home security rather than a passive object.

As a hardware-focused startup, Space faces challenges that differ significantly from software-only companies. Oscar candidly discusses the realities of manufacturing, scaling production, and maintaining a customer-first mindset while navigating the slower iteration cycles inherent in hardware development. He also highlights the importance of over-the-air updates and forward-thinking design that allows products to evolve without constant physical redesigns.

Toward the end of the episode, the conversation becomes more personal and wide-ranging, touching on electric vehicles, smart-home convenience, solar energy considerations, and how technology subtly reshapes daily routines. Oscar’s enthusiasm for leveraging technology to improve efficiency and safety is evident throughout, reinforcing the idea that innovation doesn’t always mean inventing something new — sometimes it means rethinking what already exists.

Episode 668 ultimately showcases how smart safes sit at the intersection of technology, security, and user experience. It invites listeners to reconsider how innovation can transform even the most conventional household products into intelligent, connected tools that align seamlessly with modern life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a smart safe?

A smart safe is a modern take on a traditional safe that combines physical security with digital features such as touchscreens, mobile apps, notifications, cameras, and user access controls. Unlike conventional safes, smart safes provide visibility into access events and can alert owners in real time.

Who is Oscar Hedaya?

Oscar Hedaya is an entrepreneur and the founder of Space, a company focused on reinventing home safes using modern technology. His background includes earlier ventures in touchscreen technology and electric mobility, which influenced his approach to designing connected, user-centric security products.

What makes Space different from a traditional home safe?

Space rethinks the safe as an active, connected device rather than a passive storage box. Key differences include a touchscreen interface, motion sensors, built-in cameras, app-based notifications, multiple user profiles, and detailed access logs — all designed to integrate into modern smart-home environments.

What is PanicPin and how does it work?

PanicPin is a safety feature that allows users to unlock the safe using a special PIN that silently triggers an emergency alert. This enables access under duress while notifying trusted contacts or systems that something may be wrong, adding an extra layer of personal safety.

Does a smart safe require an internet connection to work?

No. A smart safe like Space is designed to function offline as a traditional safe. Internet connectivity enhances features such as notifications, remote monitoring, and video access, but core locking and access functionality remains available even without a network connection.

Who would benefit from owning a smart safe?

Smart safes are useful for homeowners, renters, families, small businesses, and short-term rental hosts. Common use cases include securing valuables, sensitive documents, medications, firearms, cash, and shared-access items where visibility and audit trails matter.

Can smart safes be used for Airbnb or rental properties?

Yes. Smart safes are particularly well-suited for short-term rentals. Features like temporary access codes, usage logs, and remote monitoring allow hosts to grant controlled access while maintaining visibility into when and how the safe is used.

How do smart safes balance security with usability?

A key theme of Episode 668 is usability. Smart safes must remain intuitive, reliable, and easy to use — especially for non-technical users — while still offering advanced features. Space emphasizes customer feedback to ensure new capabilities don’t add unnecessary complexity.

What challenges do hardware startups face compared to software companies?

Hardware startups face longer development cycles, manufacturing constraints, supply chain dependencies, and higher upfront costs. Unlike software, hardware cannot be easily “patched” after release, making thoughtful design and long-term planning critical.

Can smart safes integrate with smart home systems?

While full automation integration varies by platform, smart safes are increasingly designed to coexist with broader smart-home ecosystems. Future possibilities include automation triggers, shared dashboards, and centralized user management across devices.

Are smart safes secure from hacking?

Smart safes rely on layered security: physical construction, encrypted digital access, limited remote control capabilities, and thoughtful restrictions on features like remote unlocking. As discussed in the episode, security-focused products must carefully balance convenience with risk reduction.

What is the future of smart safes?

The future points toward ecosystems rather than standalone devices — including multiple safe sizes, shared user management, improved integrations, and smarter alerts. As expectations evolve, smart safes are becoming an essential part of modern home security rather than a niche gadget.

Why are smart safes gaining popularity now?

Consumer expectations have shifted toward app-integrated products that provide visibility and control. Events like the pandemic accelerated comfort with connected devices, making smart safes a natural evolution of how people think about security at home.

Links:

https://www.thespacesafe.com/

Chapters

[00:26] – Introduction to Home Gadget Geeks
[02:00] – Meet Oscar Hedaya, Entrepreneur and Founder of Space
[08:02] – Reinventing Safe Technology
[11:35] – Innovative Features of the Space Smart Safe
[22:21] – Monitoring, Alerts, and Emergency Features
[27:47] – Expanding Safe Designs and Sizes
[32:17] – Airbnb Mode and Short-Term Rental Use Cases
[40:06] – Managing User Access, Roles, and Security
[42:26] – The Future of Crypto and Digital Security
[46:49] – Home Automation Integrations and Product Roadmap
[51:00] – Engaging Users and Unexpected Use Cases
[52:43] – Safes for Medications and Sensitive Items
[56:11] – Feature Requests and Customer Feedback
[58:22] – Hardware Challenges and Over-the-Air Updates
[1:04:56] – Product Design, Displays, and Aesthetics
[1:07:12] – Smart Home Security Innovations
[1:21:23] – Drones and the Future of Home Security
[1:31:04] – Solar Energy and Power Considerations
[1:36:36] – EV Ownership, Maintenance, and Tradeoffs
[1:42:13] – Conclusion and Next Steps

Summary

• Winter Storm and Show Introduction[0:00]
  • Jim Collison introduces the show, mentioning the winter storm affecting various parts of the U.S.
  • Oscar Hedaya humorously mentions the warm weather in Miami, prompting a discussion about the storm’s impact on different cities.
  • Jim thanks Patreon subscribers and encourages new subscriptions, mentioning the Amazon affiliate link on the website.
  • Jim invites Oscar to share his background, highlighting his entrepreneurial journey and previous startups.
• Oscar’s Entrepreneurial Journey[2:13]
  • Oscar discusses his first startup involving touch screen gloves, followed by electric mobility products like scooters and skateboards.
  • Oscar shares his initial skepticism about the scooter rental idea, which later became popular.
  • Jim and Oscar discuss the current state of scooters in various cities, including Omaha and Milan, Italy.
  • Oscar explains the challenges and successes of selling scooters to retailers like Best Buy and Costco.
• The Evolution of App Usage[5:47]
  • Jim and Oscar discuss the shift towards app-based control of various devices and systems.
  • Oscar notes the decline in computer sales and the rise of tablets and iPads as primary devices.
  • Jim shares his experience with using an app to control outdoor lights, highlighting the convenience and ubiquity of app-based control.
  • Oscar agrees, noting that many products now have app features, replacing traditional websites.
• Introducing the Space Safe[7:53]
  • Jim introduces the topic of safes, mentioning the traditional, bulky, and boring nature of safes available in stores.
  • Oscar explains his background in product development and his motivation to create a better safe.
  • Oscar describes the features of the Space Safe, including notifications for unauthorized access and a camera for security.
  • Oscar highlights the importance of a touch screen interface for ease of use and security.
• Space Safe Features and User Experience[20:21]
  • Oscar details the various features of the Space Safe, such as multiple user access, fingerprint recognition, and customizable PINs.
  • Jim and Oscar discuss the importance of local encryption and the ability to track user activity.
  • Oscar mentions the development of panic buttons and the potential for live monitoring by a security company.
  • Jim and Oscar explore the potential use cases for the Space Safe, including Airbnb rentals and business applications.
• Potential Use Cases and Future Developments[41:57]
  • Jim suggests potential use cases for the Space Safe, such as storing digital keys and integrating with home automation systems.
  • Oscar explains the current limitations of the Space Safe, such as the need for internet connectivity for certain features.
  • Oscar discusses the potential for future developments, including larger safe sizes and additional features based on customer feedback.
  • Jim and Oscar explore the idea of integrating the Space Safe with crypto currency storage and digital backup solutions.
• Customer Feedback and Final Thoughts[51:02]
  • Jim asks Oscar about interesting use cases and feedback from customers.
  • Oscar shares a story about a customer who wanted to prevent his children from accessing the safe without his knowledge.
  • Jim and Oscar discuss the importance of security and the potential for the Space Safe to be used for storing valuable items like guns and medications.
  • Oscar thanks the audience and mentions the potential for future updates and improvements based on customer feedback.
• Dream of Selling the Company[55:33]
  • Oscar Hedaya discusses his dream of selling the company for $500 million in five years, emphasizing that he would retain a small percentage to see the long-term impact.
  • Jim Collison expresses his lack of knowledge about the process but agrees that going public could be an option.
  • Oscar mentions that going public on the NASDAQ is part of their pitch deck and that they would love to sell to a company like Ring (now Amazon) or Nest.
  • Jim and Oscar discuss the potential of selling to Amazon, highlighting the investor’s focus on 10x or 50x returns.
• Home Security and Product Development[1:10:36]
  • Jim Collison inquires about home security products, suggesting that the safe could be the hub for other home security devices.
  • Oscar confirms that their long-term goal is to solidify their safe as the best and then expand into other home security products.
  • Jim shares his experience with smart door locks and how they have evolved over the years.
  • Oscar explains the name of their company, Space, and its significance as a personal space solution, hinting at future products like door locks and cameras.
• Innovative Security Ideas[1:13:35]
  • Jim Collison pitches an idea for a drone that would activate when the security system detects something, flying around the property to film the intruder.
  • Oscar shares a similar idea from their roadmap, involving a smoke machine that would activate if an intruder tries to steal the safe.
  • Jim and Oscar discuss the potential of using a drone as a scare tactic, with Oscar suggesting additional features like a recording or a voice command.
  • Oscar offers Jim royalties if they decide to develop the idea together, emphasizing the importance of safety measures in security devices.
• Smart Home Automation and Personal Experiences[1:24:53]
  • Jim Collison and Oscar Hedaya discuss various smart home automation devices, including smart toothbrushes and temperature control systems.
  • Oscar shares his experience with a smart toothbrush, noting that it was a nice-to-have but not a need-to-have.
  • Jim talks about the importance of cost savings, particularly in electricity bills, and how smart home devices can help manage energy consumption.
  • Oscar mentions the challenges of living in a high-rise building in Miami, where solar panels are not an option, leading to high electricity costs.
• Tesla Ownership and Maintenance[1:33:50]
  • Jim Collison and Oscar Hedaya discuss Oscar’s Tesla, noting that it still looks new despite having 80,000 miles.
  • Oscar shares his experience with tire replacement, highlighting the warranty program offered by Michelin.
  • Jim and Oscar discuss the rated mileage of electric vehicles, noting that the actual mileage can be significantly lower due to factors like weight and road conditions.
  • Oscar mentions that his battery is at 83% and that the rated mileage is often exaggerated, with actual mileage being lower.
• Electric Vehicles and User Interfaces[1:39:15]
  • Jim Collison and Oscar Hedaya discuss the user interfaces of electric vehicles, noting that Tesla’s UI is quick and responsive.
  • Oscar shares his experience with renting an electric vehicle with a poor UI, comparing it to outdated interfaces from the late 1990s.
  • Jim mentions the Cadillac version of an electric vehicle, noting that it has a comfortable interior but a poor UI.
  • Oscar praises Tesla’s UI, stating that it feels like the software was developed first, and the car was built around it.
• Solar Energy and Home Automation[1:42:16]
  • Jim Collison and Oscar Hedaya discuss the potential of solar energy in Miami, noting that solar farms are more common than individual installations.
  • Oscar suggests that developers could install solar panels on the top ceilings of high-rise buildings to reduce maintenance costs.
  • Jim mentions that his power company in Nebraska allows customers to buy into solar farms, providing a discount on their electrical rate.
  • Oscar shares that he still has his Tesla and that it has been a reliable vehicle, despite the challenges of living in a high-rise building.
• Final Thoughts and Future Plans[1:42:28]
  • Jim Collison and Oscar Hedaya discuss the future of home automation and smart devices, noting the importance of cost savings and convenience.
  • Oscar mentions that he uses his safe once a week, highlighting its low-touch nature and the importance of security.
  • Jim and Oscar discuss the potential of expanding their product line to include other home security devices, like door locks and cameras.
  • Oscar shares his excitement about the potential of their company, Space, and its long-term goals in the home security industry.

Oscar Hedaya and Space: Reinventing Home Security Through Smart Safes

Oscar Hedaya is a technology entrepreneur focused on modernizing everyday products through thoughtful design and user-centered innovation. He is the founder of Space, a company dedicated to reinventing the traditional home safe by combining physical security with modern digital technology.

Oscar’s entrepreneurial background spans multiple consumer technology categories. Earlier ventures included work on touchscreen gloves designed for mobile device interaction in cold environments, as well as projects in electric mobility. These experiences shaped his approach to product development, emphasizing real-world usability, reliability, and the importance of designing hardware that integrates naturally into daily life rather than feeling like a specialized or intimidating device.

The idea for Space emerged after Oscar identified a gap in the home security market. Despite advancements across nearly every category of consumer electronics, home safes had remained largely unchanged for decades — often bulky, mechanical, and disconnected from the rest of the modern smart home. Oscar set out to rethink what a safe could be if it were designed today, starting from user expectations rather than legacy assumptions.

Space positions itself as a smart safe platform, not just a locking box. The Space safe features a large touchscreen interface, motion sensors, built-in cameras, and app connectivity that provides real-time notifications and visibility into access events. A defining innovation is PanicPin, a discreet emergency feature that allows a user to unlock the safe under duress while silently triggering an alert. This functionality reflects Space’s focus on practical safety scenarios rather than theoretical security models.

A core principle behind Space’s development is offline-first reliability. While app connectivity enables enhanced features such as alerts, audit logs, and optional video access, the safe is designed to function fully as a traditional safe even without an internet connection. This approach balances modern convenience with the expectations of a security-critical product.

Space also addresses a wide range of real-world use cases. Beyond storing valuables or important documents, smart safes are increasingly used for medications, firearms, cash management, and shared-access environments such as Airbnb rentals and small businesses. Features like multiple user roles, temporary access codes, and detailed access logs allow owners to maintain control while granting limited access when needed.

From a business perspective, Space reflects the challenges and opportunities of being a hardware-focused startup in a software-driven world. Manufacturing, supply chain management, and longer iteration cycles require careful planning and customer-focused prioritization. To address this, Space emphasizes over-the-air updates and modular software development, allowing the product to evolve over time without constant hardware redesigns.

Looking ahead, Oscar Hedaya envisions Space as part of a broader personal security ecosystem. Future directions include additional safe sizes, expanded user management across multiple devices, and deeper integration with smart home platforms. Rather than treating the safe as a standalone object, Space aims to make it an active, intelligent component of modern home security.

Through Space, Oscar Hedaya demonstrates how innovation does not always mean inventing something entirely new — sometimes it means rethinking a familiar object with modern tools, real user feedback, and a clear understanding of how people live today. As smart homes continue to evolve, Space represents a new generation of security products designed to be visible, adaptable, and seamlessly integrated into contemporary lifestyles.

Full show notes, transcriptions (available on request), audio and video at http://theAverageGuy.tv/hgg668

Join Jim Collison / @jcollison for show #668 of Home Gadget Geeks, brought to you by the Average Guy Network.

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