Haptic feedback startup HaptX Inc is delivering its patented ‘Gloves DK2’ — the most realistic haptic feedback technology for robotics and virtual reality (VR) platforms.
The California-based firm recently raised $12 million in a round of Series A-1 funding, which included participants such as Verizon Ventures, Mason Avenue Investments, Taylor Frigon Capital Partners, and Upheaval Investments.
The capital will provide funds for research and development (R&D) amid growing workforce requirements and a period of rapid capital gains. Additionally, HaptX is working with Verizon’s 5G wing to incorporate R&D into wireless VR and immersive applications for enterprise use.
Michelle McCarthy, a Managing Director of Verizon Ventures confirmed enterprises come first, stating HaptX’s immersive experiences would address “real-world enterprise needs.”
HaptX is expanding its headquarters to a 15,000 square foot office in Redmond, Washington and is currently looking to fill many new positions.
Following the expansion, Joe Michaels, Chief Revenue Officer of HaptX painted a bright future for their products, stating:
“Customers will soon be able to experience current and next-generation HaptX products and meet the talented people who make them”
History of Innovation
The investment comes just after HaptX won a small business innovation research contract from the US military tech and talent recruitment programme AFWERX and the United States Air Force (USAF).
The Washington-based AFWERX programme supports technology and talent for emerging firms to create rapid and affordable transitions into America’s commercial and military sectors.
Seemingly, this played a role in the Washington expansion, with the new R&D team working on Gloves DK2 for military use as well as consumer and enterprise grade products in the near future.