Ultrahaptics, the innovative University of Bristol spin-out company developing technology that uses ultrasound to create the feeling of touch in mid-air, has secured a £600,000 investment to accelerate product development.
The funding has been led by London Stock Exchange-listed IP Group and one of its managed funds. It will enable Ultrahaptics, to expand its software team and customer engagement as well as speed up development of the pioneering product. 
Ultrahaptics has developed a unique technology that brings back the sense of touch to touchless interfaces by feeling without touching. The system uses ultrasound to project sensations through the air and directly onto the user. Users can feel touchless buttons, get feedback for mid-air gestures or interact with virtual objects.
The company’s ultrasonic haptic technology will be licensed into various markets including consumer electronics, household appliances and the car industry. The company already has several leading businesses enrolled onto its evaluation programme.
Head of technology at IP Group Mark Reilly said: “Ultrahaptics has created a unique technology with the potential to transform the user experience of increasingly prevalent touchless interfaces. IP Group is excited to be participating in the company’s development and growth.”
Ultrahaptics chief technical officer Tom Carter added: “The Ultrahaptics evaluation programme launch has received a very warm reception from those within the industry. A lot of interest has been registered from several blue-chip organisations and the additional funding will help us to meet the needs of our customers.”
