What is 8i?
8i is at the forefront of volumetric video technology, headquartered in New Zealand. The company's proprietary technology converts multi-camera video arrays into lifelike 3D holograms of individuals. These holograms can be experienced from any angle, making them ideal for applications in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). By enabling users to interact with holographic representations as if they were physically present, 8i is redefining human interaction in digital spaces and paving the way for more immersive communication and entertainment.
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 Rothenberg Ventures, Dolby Family Ventures, Horizons Ventures, Bertelsmann Digital Media Investments, Boost VC, Advancit Capital, Samsung Ventures, Signia Venture Partners, RRE Ventures, Kortschak Investments, and Sound Ventures
Private Equity (2016): $2.7M, investors not publicly disclosed
Series B (2017): $27M featuring One Ventures and Verizon Ventures
Key Investors in 8i
Rothenberg Ventures
Rothenberg Ventures is a venture capital firm that invests in visionary entrepreneurs developing transformative technologies at the intersection of technology and human potential. The firm provides capital, strategic guidance, and a network of industry leaders to accelerate the growth of early-stage companies in areas such as artificial intelligence, spatial computing, biotechnology, and clean energy.
Dolby Family Ventures
Dolby Laboratories, Inc. creates audio and imaging technologies that transform entertainment and communications at the cinema, at home, at work, and on mobile devices. The company develops and licenses its audio technologies, including Dolby Digital Plus for digital television, mobile, and Internet-based services; Dolby Digital, a digital audio coding technology that provides multichannel sound in the home; and AAC & HE-AAC, an audio coding technologies used to broadcast, download, and streaming content.
Horizons Ventures
The Horizon Ventures partners have been helping entrepreneurs turn startup ventures into successful companies for over 20 years. We have worked with entrepreneurs with a vision that is both compelling and pragmatic and who appreciate our active involvement as much as equity financing.
What's next for 8i?
With substantial enterprise-level backing and a recent strategic investment, 8i is poised for significant expansion. The company's focus on developing technology that bridges the gap between the physical and digital worlds positions it well within the rapidly growing spatial computing and metaverse markets. Future developments are likely to involve enhancing the realism and interactivity of its holographic technology, expanding its platform compatibility, and forging strategic partnerships to integrate its solutions into broader VR/AR ecosystems. This capital infusion will fuel further research and development, enabling 8i to solidify its market leadership in holographic human capture and experience.
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