Chris Decenzo
Chris DeCenzo
Current Parent
Senior Principal Engineer at Amazon’s Lab126
I have worked in Silicon Valley as a software engineer for almost 30 years. Today I am a Senior Principal Engineer at Amazon’s Lab126, which is the organization at Amazon which builds devices such as Kindle, FireTV, Echo, Ring, Blink, eero, Zoox (self-driving taxis), and Project Kuiper (low-earth satellite constellation for providing global broadband access).
I have personal experience working on projects related to the Connected Home, Internet of Things, Home Security, Cell Phone, and Interactive Television spaces. I specialize in start up projects: from ideas to prototypes to launching and supporting new products for customers.
At Amazon, I am responsible for the long-term architecture for how devices connect to Alexa, through both cloud APIs and local smart home protocols. I influence connectivity standards, and the selection of smart home features in the Echo product line and in the device maker SDKs we make. I define the technical vision in this area, and provide leadership, advice and direction to Amazon leadership.
In 2019, I co-founded Matter, the industry-wide effort to develop a connectivity standard for IP devices, and I continue to serve on the Matter Steering Committee today. I also represent Amazon on the Connectivity Standards Alliance’s Board of Directors.
I joined Amazon in November 2016 after a 9-year role as Chief Software Architect of iControl Technologies, an early pioneer in Smart Home. iControl developed the first widely deployed consumer system which married home security, cameras, dedicated touch screen devices, and wireless mesh devices like lights, locks, thermostats and smart plugs. iControl built its own version of these devices and integrated with products made by other companies using standards like Z-Wave and Zigbee, as well as many proprietary protocols. With over 30 granted patents related to Smart Home and IoT, I have been active in this area of technology for more than 15 years.
I try to take a hands approach to projects, participating in as many layers as possible: from coding, design, and testing to vision docs, product proposals, and public speaking.
On weekends, I enjoy playing drums in a rock band.
https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices