Uniphy secures £3 million backing

A technology firm is preparing for major growth following a significant investment round.

Leeds-based Uniphy has raised £3 million to accelerate the development and commercial rollout of its “smart surfaces” – a technology designed to replace traditional dashboard controls and transform how people interact with appliances. 

The funding comes from existing backers NPIF II – Mercia Equity Finance, managed by Mercia Ventures, alongside Mercia’s own funds.

Uniphy’s innovation allows touch-sensitive controls to be embedded into 3D plastic or glass panels of any shape, offering a safer alternative to in-car touchscreens by enabling drivers to identify functions by feel. 

The technology is also cheaper to manufacture, more hygienic than buttons and fully recyclable. 

It has already been trialled by Hyundai and Grupo Antolin, both of which are exploring future adoption. 

Uniphy’s surfaces also function in wet environments, making them suitable for marine applications and household appliances such as hobs or washing machines.

Bosses say the new investment will allow the company to develop an integrated chip to support mass production and further miniaturise its technology for use in mobile devices. 

They add that the company, which currently has a headcount of 15, expects to create five new jobs in the coming year.

With manufacturers increasingly moving away from touchscreens amid safety concerns and reliability issues, demand for physical, tactile controls is on the rise.

Jim Nicholas, chief executive of Uniphy, which was founded in 2015 by microelectronics specialists David Lomas and David Dean, said: “As humans we spend much of our lives interacting with machines – on our mobiles, in our cars or our homes – but the limitations of current controls can make it a frustrating experience.

“Uniphy’s technology offers designers the freedom to create new, more intuitive interfaces and transform the way we engage with machines.”

David Baker of Mercia Ventures added: “From cars to consumer electronics and industrial machines, manufacturers are seeking ways to enhance user experience and differentiate themselves. 

“Uniphy’s disruptive technology could be a game changer. 

“Having spotted its potential at an early stage, we are pleased to continue supporting the company as it prepares for mass production.”

The £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II) fund, operated by British Business Bank, provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to help small and medium-sized businesses.

Lizzy Upton, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, added: “Leeds, and indeed the North of England, have long been at the centre of new technological innovation. 

“That’s why it’s important that we continue to inspire and support founders to develop technology that can make a real difference to everyday life. 

“The team at Uniphy are doing exactly this, and I can’t wait to see what other innovations will come out of our region over the coming years.”

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