Fleksy Company Profile

Background

Fleksy is a pioneering virtual keyboard application designed for Android and iOS devices, renowned for its advanced autocorrection and gesture control features. Established in 2011, Fleksy initially aimed to assist the blind and visually impaired by enabling efficient typing through muscle memory. Over time, it has evolved into a versatile keyboard solution catering to a broad user base. The company's mission is to democratize access to language input technologies through their suite of Software Development Kits (SDKs), including the Virtual Keyboard SDK, Predictive Text SDK, and In-App Keyboard SDK.

Key Strategic Focus

Fleksy's strategic focus centers on providing customizable and efficient keyboard solutions to both consumers and businesses. The company offers a white-label SDK that allows businesses to integrate Fleksy's keyboard technology into their applications, enhancing user experience and engagement. This SDK is utilized across various industries, including healthcare, productivity, gaming, and cybersecurity. Fleksy's core objectives include expanding its SDK offerings, enhancing predictive text capabilities, and maintaining a strong emphasis on user privacy.

Financials and Funding

In October 2021, Fleksy secured a $1.6 million Series A funding round led by Inveready, with participation from existing investors SOSV and Simile Venture Partners. This investment aimed to support the company's rapid growth, expand its client portfolio, and further develop its SDK offerings. Prior to this, Fleksy raised over $800,000 through equity crowdfunding in October 2018, surpassing its initial target of $300,000. The funds were allocated towards enhancing the core AI engine, introducing features like swipe typing, and expanding language support.

Pipeline Development

Fleksy has been actively developing and launching new products and features to enhance its offerings:

Predictive Keyboard SDK: Launched in 2022, this toolkit aims to improve existing iOS and Android keyboard apps by providing advanced predictive text capabilities.

In-App Keyboard Capability: Introduced in 2022, this feature allows businesses to integrate Fleksy's keyboard directly into their applications, providing a seamless typing experience for users.

FleksyArt Marketplace: Launched in January 2021, this marketplace enables artists to sell digital artworks as keyboard themes, allowing users to customize their keyboard appearance.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Fleksy distinguishes itself through its proprietary technologies and innovative features:

Proprietary Technologies: Fleksy's autocorrect algorithm combines analysis of user typing patterns and linguistic context, allowing for accurate text input even when users mistype. This technology enables typing on an invisible keyboard or off the keyboard in some instances, making it particularly beneficial for visually impaired users.

Scientific Methodologies: The company employs error-correcting algorithms that analyze tap locations rather than letters selected, enhancing typing accuracy and speed. This approach has been recognized with awards such as the Guinness World Record for fastest touch-screen text message in 2014.

Leadership Team

Olivier Plante: CEO and Co-founder of Thingthing Ltd., the company behind Fleksy. Under his leadership, Fleksy has transitioned towards a B2B model, focusing on providing SDK solutions to various industries.

Victoria Gerchinhoren: Chief Design Officer at Fleksy. She has been instrumental in launching initiatives like the FleksyArt marketplace, collaborating with artists to offer customizable keyboard themes.

Leadership Changes

In June 2016, Pinterest acquired the team behind Fleksy, leading to a transition in leadership. Following this, Thingthing Ltd. acquired Fleksy's assets in 2017, with Olivier Plante assuming the role of CEO.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The virtual keyboard market is highly competitive, with major players like Google's Gboard and Microsoft's SwiftKey dominating the space. The market is characterized by rapid technological advancements, with a focus on AI-driven predictive text, customization options, and integration capabilities.

Competitor Analysis

Gboard: Developed by Google, Gboard offers features like glide typing, voice typing, and integration with Google Search. Its deep integration with the Android ecosystem provides a seamless user experience.

SwiftKey: Acquired by Microsoft, SwiftKey is known for its AI-powered predictive text and customization options. It supports multiple languages and offers features like swipe typing.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Fleksy has engaged in several strategic collaborations to enhance its market position:

Palm: In October 2018, Fleksy partnered with Palm to provide a custom version of its keyboard for Palm's ultra-mobile device, enhancing the typing experience on a compact screen.

Pinterest: In June 2016, Pinterest acquired the team behind Fleksy, leading to a transition in the company's development and focus.

Operational Insights

Fleksy's strategic considerations include:

Differentiation through Customization: Offering highly customizable keyboard solutions allows Fleksy to cater to specific client needs, setting it apart from competitors.