100 Disruptive Brands 2017

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2016

uBeam

uBeam is the wireless charging startup founded in 2011 by former NASA astrobiology researcher Meredith Perry.

Its technology works by transmitting power through the air to wirelessly charge electronic devices, using ultrasound. In simple terms, transmitters on a room’s walls track devices with uBeam receivers, sending inaudible, high-pitched ultrasound beams.

The receivers convert the sound vibrations into electricity, which safely charges devices – as well as light-bulbs and appliances.

The Los Angeles-based company’s prototype was created in 2011 and it has since raised $23.4m (£16.1m) from four funding rounds. Investors include venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz and Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer.

The product is expected to be commercially available in late 2016, when uBeam plans to sell its transmitters as well as working with partners to install them in restaurants, hotels and cafes.

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