A boom in insurtech investment last year is beginning to pay dividends as companies emerge with more refined products tuned to key components of the insurance value chain. Digital Insurance presents eight companies that are shaking up insurance with the Internet of Things, drones and machine learning. [For previous editions, check out 17 insurtechs to watch in 2017 and 24 insurtechs in Plug & Play's accelerator]
Santana, Danni
Gate Labs
This company manufactures an internet-connected lock that features a camera that allows homeowners to vet people at their door. Its apps work with major smartphones, as well as the Amazon Alexa personal assistant. getgate.com
Santana, Danni
Emplay
This company uses analytics to help sales representatives, like insurance agents, optimize their tactics and identify the best targets. emplay.net
Santana, Danni
Neos
This British company recently announced funding from Aviva. It provides a home insurance product, underwritten by Munich Re, which comes with eight sensors and camera to help detect potential issues in a home. Those devices link to a mobile app with the goal of helping prevent damage before it happens. neos.co.uk
Santana, Danni
Sentiance
Another Internet of Things management company, Sentiance provides software-development kits for devices related to auto, home and health insurance. sentiance.com
Santana, Danni
Ladder
This company has developed a new model for life insurance that is meant to change coverage dynamically as buyers age. Its policies are underwritten by Fidelity Security Life Insurance Company and sold exclusively online. Ladderlife.com
Santana, Danni
Loveland Innovations
Started by former Verisk Analytics executive Jim Loveland, Utah-based Loveland Innovations provides a management platform for drone use in insurance, including job management, flight planning and report generation. lovelandinnovations.com
Santana, Danni
Sherpa
This analytics company recently partnered with Gen Re to help identify the right insurance product mix for commercial customers. It leans on AI data to provide a single underwriting process that accounts for all risks without being overly burdensome. justsherpa.com
Santana, Danni
Nexar
Nexar’s internet-connected dash cam helps record crucial driving data and incidents for insurance underwriting and claims. It provides a turnkey usage-based insurance product based on its data. getnexar.com