What is 8i?
8i is at the forefront of volumetric video capture and rendering, headquartered in New Zealand. The company's proprietary technology converts standard video footage from multiple cameras into lifelike 3D holograms of individuals. These holograms can be viewed from any angle on various devices, making them ideal for applications in the burgeoning metaverse, virtual reality training, and augmented reality content creation. 8i's approach aims to bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds by enabling users to interact with holographic representations as if they were present in the same room.
How much funding has 8i raised?
8i has raised a total of $44.2M across 4 funding rounds:
Angel/Seed
$1M
Series A
$13.5M
Private Equity
$2.7M
Series B
$27M
Angel/Seed (2014): $1M, investors not publicly disclosed
Series A (2015): $13.5M led by Signia Venture Partners, Sound Ventures, Samsung Ventures, Rothenberg Ventures, RRE Ventures, Bertelsmann Digital Media Investments, Boost VC, Kortschak Investments, Dolby Family Ventures, Horizons Ventures, and Advancit Capital
Private Equity (2016): $2.7M, investors not publicly disclosed
Series B (2017): $27M featuring Verizon Ventures and One Ventures
Key Investors in 8i
Signia Venture Partners
Signia Venture Partners is a venture capital firm established in 2012, aimed at being the most supportive and value-added investors for entrepreneurs. The firm has raised multiple fully deployed funds, investing in exceptional entrepreneurs, breakthrough technologies, and innovative business models.
Verizon Ventures
Verizon Enterprise Solutions provides network, security, and communications services to business and government clients. The division offers cloud computing, managed services, and IoT solutions to help organizations operate efficiently.
Horizons Ventures
The Horizon Ventures partners have been helping entrepreneurs turn startup ventures into successful companies for over 20 years. They have worked with entrepreneurs with a vision that is both compelling and pragmatic and who appreciate their active involvement as much as equity financing.
What's next for 8i?
With the recent influx of major strategic investment, 8i is poised for significant growth and technological advancement. The company's focus on creating realistic human holograms positions it to capitalize on the increasing demand for immersive content and experiences in the entertainment, communication, and enterprise sectors. Future developments are likely to center on enhancing the fidelity of holographic captures, expanding device compatibility, and forging strategic partnerships to integrate its technology into mainstream platforms. This latest capital infusion signals strong investor confidence in 8i's vision and its potential to redefine human interaction in digital spaces.
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