A Bristol University spin-out that merged with a San Francisco-based computer hardware device manufacturer in May has rebranded.
Ultrahaptics, which has developed tech to allow people to ‘feel’ virtual objects in mid air using ultrasound, and Leap Motion have now become Ultraleap.
The Ultrahaptics and Leap Motion names will still be used as trademarks for existing products but Ultraleap will be used for new software and hardware launches, according to the companies.
Ultrahaptics’ chief executive Steve Cliffe, who is taking on the same role for Ultraleap, said: “The story is now bigger than either Ultrahaptics or Leap Motion, and it’s about more than just haptics and hand tracking.
“Rebranding isn’t a decision we’ve taken lightly. We’re immensely proud of what our companies have achieved.
“We’re also very excited for what’s to come. Our new name and brand reflects our ambitions in this new world, now and for the future.”
Ultraleap’s products include hand-tracking and mid-air haptics technology , which uses ultrasound to project tactile sensations onto users’ hands. Users can feel and interact with virtual objects and controls with no need for wearables, controllers or touchscreens.
Leap Motion says it is now focusing on "facilitating natural interaction" between people and machines.
Steve added: “Tactile, virtual interfaces are set to transform user interaction across sectors such as automotive, advertising, immersive entertainment, VR/AR, training and simulation, and enterprise applications.”
The technology is already being licensed by a wide range of industries and was used in The Void’s Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire at Disney.
However, the news comes as Ultrahaptics, which is valued at £150million, reports a £10.2million loss for 2018 - up from a £2.8million loss the year before.
Christopher Olds, the company’s chief financial officer, told the Telegraph that the increase was due to more spending on research and development, and the growth of the sales team.
