Sony Innovation Fund

LIV Inc, formerly known as LIV Net Inc, is a technology company based in Prague, Czech Republic, specializing in virtual reality software for gaming. Established in 2013, LIV focuses on enabling VR live streamers to engage with their audiences in real-time, transforming viewers from passive spectators into active participants. Since its inception, the company has redefined the landscape of live-streamed gaming content, allowing creators to enhance their interactive experiences. Since launching in 2018, LIV's innovative approach has garnered over 1.5 billion views, showcasing its significant impact on the virtual reality and gaming communities.

Rad operates a global network focused on virtual reality, 360 video, and immersive experiences, catering to the growing demand for innovative content consumption. Through its platform, Rad delivers a diverse range of programming, including eSports, music, comedy, and sports, appealing particularly to Millennial and Gen Z audiences. The service stands out by offering a variety of viewing formats such as 2D, 3D, 4K, live, and immersive VR content. Additionally, Rad incorporates blockchain technology and peer-to-peer networking, enabling viewers to earn rewards points and engage with the community. This unique combination positions Rad as a hub for next-generation viewers seeking edgy and interactive entertainment.

Talespin LLC, founded in 2015 and headquartered in Culver City, California, with an additional office in Utrecht, the Netherlands, develops a spatial computing platform focused on talent development and skills alignment for employers. The company offers Talespin Runway, an enterprise extended reality (XR) platform that facilitates VR training and performance support applications. Additionally, Talespin provides mixed reality tools designed to enhance employee job performance and improve the collection and alignment of skills data. By leveraging its proprietary XR technology, Talespin aims to transform workforce management and training through immersive technology, effectively enabling organizations to preserve institutional memory and foster a more collaborative and productive work environment.

MonoAI Technology specializes in developing and operating network games while also conducting research and content development for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications. The company operates a metaverse platform known as XR CLOUD, which integrates various digital experiences. Additionally, MonoAI Technology is pioneering a novel quality assurance (QA) business that combines traditional software testing methods with artificial intelligence, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of testing processes. Through these initiatives, MonoAI Technology aims to contribute to the evolving landscape of digital interactivity and immersive environments.

Style Port Inc. is a Nagoya-based company established in 2017 that specializes in virtual reality (VR) preview systems using artificial intelligence technology. Its flagship product, Roov, is an Internet VR platform designed to assist real estate agents in marketing properties and enabling potential buyers to visualize interiors effectively. Roov can generate 3D modeling data from computer-aided design (CAD) data, even for properties that are still under construction. For existing properties, users can enhance the VR experience by removing personal items and furniture through a scanning survey. The platform is accessible on general terminals and web browsers, utilizing Style Port's proprietary development engine to facilitate features such as walkthroughs, furniture placement simulations, and indoor measurements.

Truepic, Inc. is an image authentication platform based in La Jolla, California, founded in 2014. The company specializes in verifying images and videos, serving various sectors including insurance, property management, beauty, health and wellness, online sales, and journalism. Truepic has developed pioneering "controlled capture" technology that ensures the verifiable origin, contents, and metadata of visual media. This technology enhances the authenticity of photos and videos, addressing the growing concerns around disinformation. Additionally, Truepic employs advanced image forensics to assist clients in assessing the trustworthiness of traditional visual content. The company's mission focuses on promoting the value of authentic media while combating deceptive imagery, thereby fostering trust in visual communications.

SwingVision provides real-time video analysis and coaching to athletes using proprietary machine vision on just a single smartphone.

SiLC Technologies is a Silicon Photonics start up focusing on photonic Sensor and 3D imaging applications. It develops new and novel technologies and integrated solutions to address the growing needs of an autonomous and smart new world.

UltraSense Systems, Inc. develops integrated 3D ultrasound sensor solutions aimed at enhancing user interaction with technology. The company offers TouchPoint sensors that enable low-power user interfaces capable of detecting touch and force through various materials and thicknesses using its patented 3D ultrasound technology. These sensors are applicable across multiple sectors, including smartphones, consumer electronics, home appliances, automotive, industrial, and medical markets, allowing for precise and localized buttonless interfaces. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Jose, California, UltraSense Systems also provides a development kit to facilitate the integration of its technology. Products are distributed through various channels, making them accessible for a wide array of applications.

AdHawk Microsystems Inc. specializes in developing eye and gesture tracking software technology alongside micro-electromechanical systems for mobile and wearable devices. Founded in 2015 and located in Kitchener, Canada, the company offers a camera-free eye tracking system that facilitates mobile data capture and supports advancements in augmented and virtual reality solutions. AdHawk aims to create a seamless layer of technology that intuitively responds to the needs, intents, and emotional states of users, ultimately enhancing their everyday experiences.

DigiLens Inc. is a developer and manufacturer of optical platform and photopolymer technology solutions specializing in waveguide displays for extended reality (XR) applications. The company offers a range of products, including the Crystal30 and Crystal50 lenses, which enable original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to create customizable XR devices for both enterprise and consumer markets. DigiLens also provides innovative solutions like the DigiLens AutoHUD, which enhances the field of view and reduces component size in heads-up displays, and CrystalClear, an augmented reality heads-up display. In addition to display technologies, DigiLens supplies light engines and hardware development kits, such as Insight30, which assist users in evaluating and developing wearable devices. Founded in 1997 and based in Sunnyvale, California, DigiLens has positioned itself as a leader in holographic waveguide technology, enabling various industries, including automotive, enterprise, consumer, avionics, and military, to leverage XR capabilities.

Verity Studios AG, founded in 2014 and based in Zurich, Switzerland, develops and supplies advanced indoor drone systems tailored for the live entertainment industry. The company specializes in creating interactive and autonomous flying machines, including synthetic swarms and stage flyers. Verity Studios offers end-to-end drone show production services for a variety of events, theatrical productions, and entertainment shows. Its innovative technology has been showcased at prominent events, such as the TED 2016 conference, the Broadway show PARAMOUR by Cirque du Soleil, Metallica’s arena tour, and New York Knicks pre-game shows at Madison Square Garden. Through the integration of technological innovation and artistic design, Verity Studios is redefining the possibilities of drone performances in live settings.

THETA.tv is a decentralized live streaming platform that leverages blockchain technology to enhance video delivery and monetization. Founded in 2015 and based in Cupertino, California, the platform allows users to stream and view content on various devices, including PCs, mobile phones, Smart TVs, and IoT devices. By utilizing a peer-to-peer network, THETA.tv incentivizes users to share their bandwidth, thereby reducing content delivery costs and creating additional revenue streams for existing video platforms. The company has attracted notable investments from strategic corporate partners such as Samsung NEXT and the Sony Innovation Fund, as well as media investors like Bertelsmann Digital Media Investments and Creative Artists Agency, alongside established Silicon Valley venture capital firms.

H2L Inc. researches, develops, sells, and licenses electric stimulation devices to aid the controlling of finger movement. It offers UnlimitedHand, a VR gaming controller that reads hand’s gesture, and controls fingers and hand by EMS(electronic muscle stimulation); and enables users to touch and feel a pseudo-object in the virtual world. The company also offers PossessedHand, a device with a forearm belt to control human fingers by applying electrical stimulus to the muscles around the forearm. Its PossessedHand is used in rehabilitation and learning support applications. The company was founded in 2012 and is based in Tokyo, Japan.

DigiLens Inc. is a developer and manufacturer of optical platform and photopolymer technology solutions specializing in waveguide displays for extended reality (XR) applications. The company offers a range of products, including the Crystal30 and Crystal50 lenses, which enable original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to create customizable XR devices for both enterprise and consumer markets. DigiLens also provides innovative solutions like the DigiLens AutoHUD, which enhances the field of view and reduces component size in heads-up displays, and CrystalClear, an augmented reality heads-up display. In addition to display technologies, DigiLens supplies light engines and hardware development kits, such as Insight30, which assist users in evaluating and developing wearable devices. Founded in 1997 and based in Sunnyvale, California, DigiLens has positioned itself as a leader in holographic waveguide technology, enabling various industries, including automotive, enterprise, consumer, avionics, and military, to leverage XR capabilities.