CIE Components in Electronics
Ultrahaptics, the world leader in mid-air touch technology, today announced it has completed a £35 million ($45 million) Series C round of investment. The raise, which was oversubscribed, will enable Ultrahaptics to further develop and commercialise its revolutionary haptic technology in next generation user interfaces and experiences.
The new funding is led by Mayfair Equity Partners, the buyout and growth investor providing capital to dynamic businesses in the TMT and Consumer sectors, with further new investors including Hostplus, the major Australian superannuation fund. Existing shareholders IP Group plc, Woodford Investment, Cornes and Dolby Family Ventures have again participated.
Founded in 2013 and based on technology developed at the University of Bristol, UK, Ultrahaptics’ core technology uses proprietary algorithms and supporting hardware to project ultrasound-driven tactile sensations in mid-air. Users can ‘feel’ and interact with virtual objects and controls, using freehand gestures to interface with technology and content.
Ultrahaptics is currently engaged with blue-chip customers across key verticals such as automotive, where the company has developed concept vehicles with Bosch and Harman; digital signage; location-based entertainment; industrial controls; medical interfaces; VR games; and augmented reality / virtual reality (AR / VR) enterprise applications. The company also supports the international academic community through a programme designed to enable additional haptics research and development.
Commenting on the round, Ultrahaptics CEO, Steve Cliffe, said: “We’re delighted to welcome major new investor Mayfair, while receiving further endorsement and support from our existing shareholders for the company’s exciting next phase of development. Our funding has become ever more global, reflecting the potential of our technology in industry sectors and markets all over the world.”
Daniel Sasaki, managing partner of Mayfair Equity Partners, said: “The potential for mid-air haptics systems within immersive infotainment systems and human-machine interfaces is very compelling and exciting. We look forward to supporting the Ultrahaptics team in their journey to become the global platform enabling mid-air haptics.”
Dr Mark Reilly, managing partner of Technology at IP Group plc, said: “We are delighted to welcome such high-quality new investors to join us in supporting the next stage of growth at Ultrahaptics. The company is yet another example of a top UK ‘deep tech’ start-up nurtured from day one by IP Group.”
