Montréal-based Haply Robotics has secured $16 million CAD in a "seed-plus" funding round to advance its haptic technology, which enables robots to interact with the physical world through touch. The investment, led by Sound Media Ventures, includes contributions from the Amazon Industrial Innovation Fund, Hanwha Asset Management Venture Fund, and Two Small Fish Ventures, among others. This brings Haply’s total funding to over $20 million CAD, supporting its expansion and manufacturing efforts.
Haply Robotics: Innovating Touch in Robotics
Founded in 2018, Haply Robotics focuses on creating precision controllers that allow AI systems to "feel" and respond to physical forces. The company’s technology records pressure, resistance, and interaction forces in real-time, enabling machines to adapt their movements. Haply’s products, such as the Inverse3 and Minverse controllers, are manufactured at its Montréal headquarters. The startup claims a 150% annual growth rate and collaborates with Nvidia to develop applications for the Omniverse platform.
The Growing Field of Physical AI
The rise of physical AI, which involves AI systems interacting with the real world, is gaining momentum in Canada. Haply’s recent funding follows significant investments in other Canadian companies like Waabi, which raised $750 million USD for self-driving technology, and Vention, which secured $110 million USD to expand its industrial AI platform. Haply’s technology is applicable across diverse sectors, from video game design to surgical procedures, and is particularly suited for tasks requiring "superhuman" capabilities.
Implications for Industry and Future Plans
Haply’s advancements in haptic technology have the potential to revolutionize industries such as mining and oil and gas, where remote and precise control is crucial. The company envisions its technology being used in military and defensive systems, especially in remote locations like Canada’s Arctic. Looking ahead, Haply plans to open a new office in California, enhance its manufacturing capabilities, and expand its team to meet growing demand from enterprise and government clients.
Haply Robotics’ progress underscores the increasing importance of tactile technology in robotics, positioning the company as a key player in the evolving landscape of physical AI. For more information, visit Haply Robotics’ website.
