Glidance Inc. Company Profile

Background

Company Overview

Glidance Inc., founded in January 2023 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, is an assistive technology company dedicated to enhancing independent mobility for individuals who are blind or have low vision. The company's flagship product, Glide, is the world's first self-guided mobility aid that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to provide autonomous navigation assistance.

Mission and Vision

Glidance's mission is to revolutionize independent mobility for people with sight loss by offering innovative, user-friendly solutions that empower users to navigate their environments confidently and safely. The company envisions a world where technological advancements break down barriers to mobility, fostering greater independence and quality of life for the blind and low-vision community.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Product Development: Advance the design and functionality of Glide to meet the diverse needs of users.

• Market Penetration: Expand the availability of Glide to a global audience, addressing the mobility challenges faced by millions with visual impairments.

• Affordability and Accessibility: Ensure Glide is both affordable and accessible, aiming to price the device comparably to a new smartphone with subscription plans for feature updates.

Areas of Specialization

Glidance specializes in the development of assistive technologies that combine AI, robotics, and user-centric design to create intuitive mobility solutions for the visually impaired.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Artificial Intelligence: Enables real-time navigation and obstacle detection.

• Robotics: Provides autonomous guidance through advanced mechanical design.

• Haptic and Audio Feedback: Delivers sensory information to users for enhanced situational awareness.

Primary Markets Targeted

Glidance targets the global blind and low-vision community, focusing on individuals seeking alternatives to traditional mobility aids like white canes and guide dogs. The company aims to serve the approximately 338 million blind people worldwide, many of whom lack access to effective mobility solutions.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Glidance has successfully secured funding to support its product development and market expansion efforts. In July 2024, the company completed a Series 1 funding round, raising $1.5 million. Notable investors include Kalamazoo Forward Ventures (KZFV), which announced its investment in October 2024.

Utilization of Capital

The funds raised are allocated towards accelerating the development of Glide, conducting pilot programs, and preparing for commercial launch. This includes refining the product's design, enhancing its technological capabilities, and expanding manufacturing and distribution channels.

Pipeline Development

Glide Product Development

Glide is currently in the advanced stages of development, with pilot programs and beta testing initiated in late 2024 across North America and Europe. The company plans to begin shipping the product in September 2025.

Anticipated Milestones

• Summer 2024: Launch of pre-order campaign with a 40% discount for early adopters.

• September 2025: Commencement of product shipments to customers.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Glide incorporates a suite of proprietary technologies designed to offer a seamless navigation experience:

• AI-Powered Navigation: Utilizes real-time data to determine optimal routes, detect obstacles, and guide users safely.

• Haptic Feedback System: Provides tactile signals through the handle to indicate direction and alert users to potential hazards.

• Audio Guidance: Delivers verbal instructions and environmental information to enhance user awareness.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM): Enables Glide to map and understand its environment dynamically, facilitating accurate navigation.

• Sensor Fusion: Combines data from multiple sensors, including cameras and depth sensors, to create a comprehensive understanding of the surroundings.

Leadership Team

Amos Miller – Founder and CEO

Amos Miller brings a wealth of experience in technology and assistive solutions:

• Professional Background: Former Product Director at Microsoft Research and founder of Microsoft Soundscape, an app designed to assist blind users with navigation.

• Contributions: As a blind individual, Miller's personal experiences drive the company's mission to create effective mobility solutions.

Amit Nisenbaum – Active Chairman

Amit Nisenbaum offers extensive leadership and entrepreneurial expertise:

• Professional Background: CEO of Ahoy Insurance, with over a decade in autonomous vehicles and a history of successful entrepreneurial ventures.

• Contributions: Provides strategic guidance and oversight to Glidance's operations and growth initiatives.

Gerry Ens – VP of Engineering

Gerry Ens leads the engineering efforts with a focus on robotics:

• Professional Background: Over 20 years in robotics R&D, including roles as Founder and CTO of Go-west Robotics.

• Contributions: Oversees the technical development and innovation of Glide.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The assistive technology market for the visually impaired is evolving, with increasing demand for innovative solutions that enhance mobility and independence. Traditional aids like white canes and guide dogs have limitations, creating opportunities for technological advancements to fill the gap.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the space include:

• STRAP Tech: Develops wearable devices that use sensors to detect obstacles and provide haptic feedback to users.

• WeWALK: Offers a smart cane equipped with ultrasonic sensors and smartphone integration to assist navigation.

Both companies focus on enhancing traditional mobility aids with technology, whereas Glidance's Glide offers a standalone autonomous navigation solution.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Glidance has engaged in strategic partnerships to bolster its market position and innovation capacity:

• Kalamazoo Forward Ventures (KZFV): Investment partnership to support product development and market expansion.

• MassRobotics Residency: Participation in the MassRobotics startup program to leverage resources and expertise in robotics development.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

Glidance differentiates itself through:

• User-Centric Design: Incorporating feedback from the blind and low-vision community to ensure Glide meets real-world needs.

• Affordability: Positioning Glide at a price point comparable to smartphones, with subscription options for ongoing feature enhancements.

• Technological Integration: Combining AI, robotics, and sensory feedback to provide a comprehensive mobility solution.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Glidance aims to:

• Expand Market Reach: Increase awareness and adoption of Glide globally.

• Enhance Product Features: Continuously improve Glide's capabilities through software updates and user feedback.

• Forge Additional Partnerships: Collaborate with organizations and institutions to promote accessibility and mobility solutions.

Opportunities for Expansion

Potential areas for growth include:

• Integration with Navigation Apps: Enhancing compatibility with existing mapping and navigation services.

• Customization Options: Offering personalized features to cater to individual user preferences and needs.

• Global Distribution: Establishing distribution channels in regions with high demand for assistive mobility devices.

Contact Information

• Website: glidance.io

• Social Media:

• LinkedIn: Glidance Inc.

• Twitter: @GlidanceInc

• Facebook: Glidance