Softionics Unveils Vision-Free Electrostatic Sensing Platform to Transform Spatial Intelligence

Softionics vision-free electrostatic sensing technology marks a major advancement in how machines perceive and interact with physical space. The startup, headquartered in San Francisco, introduced its PercepXR® platform, a transparent ultra-thin film sensor capable of detecting spatial positions and interactions without use of conventional cameras or vision systems.

A Clear Shift Beyond Traditional Vision Systems

In contrast to optical and infrared sensors that rely on line-of-sight and lighting conditions, the PercepXR platform operates through electrostatic sensing enabling detection of human and object movement, proximity, and gesture across surfaces even when out of sight. This approach positions the system to support applications where privacy, form-factor, or aesthetics restrict camera usage.

By integrating an ultra-thin, transparent film into surfaces such as displays, glass partitions, furniture, or vehicle dashboards, Softionics enables ambient spatial intelligence that blends into real-world environments rather than standing out as dedicated hardware.

Key Capabilities and Technical Highlights

Softionics reports the following technical differentiators for PercepXR:

Sub-millimeter resolution of object movement and touch/hover interactions across a wide area film sensor.
Transparent and flexible form-factor allowing integration behind glass or embedded in surfaces without visual interruption.
Ability to sense through non-metal, non-conductive materials enabling detection through glossy surfaces or displays.
Real-time output suitable for machine-vision and AI systems, enabling physical-AI interactions without video capture.
This combination opens doors for new use-cases in augmented reality (AR), automotive cabin sensing, robotics, IoT devices, and beyond.

Application Scenarios: From Automotive to AR/VR

The PercepXR platform is tailored for multiple industry verticals:

Automotive interior sensing: Automakers can embed the film into dashboards or ceilings to detect passenger placement, gestures, and occupancy without cameras advancing safety, personalization, and HMI (human-machine interface) experiences.
Augmented reality and mixed reality: Displays, smart glasses or AR surfaces can incorporate the sensor film to track hand and object motion in mid-air or near surfaces enabling more immersive and natural experiences.
Robotics and industrial interfaces: The film can provide tactile-like feedback or proximity detection for collaborative robots (cobots) operating alongside humans enhancing safety and spatial awareness.
Smart spaces and consumer electronics: From transparent sensor-enabled furniture to touch-enabled glass partitions, the technology enables ambient interactivity without visible hardware.
These applications demonstrate how Softionics aims to embed spatial intelligence into environments rather than add standalone devices.

Market Context and Strategic Timing

The launch of PercepXR comes amid rising demand for non-vision-based sensing solutions driven by concerns around privacy, low-light conditions, glare, and device aesthetics. As enterprises and OEMs seek new modes of interface beyond camera-based systems, electrostatic sensing offers a compelling alternative.

Furthermore, the broader trend around physical AI and ambient intelligence increases relevance for sensor technologies that can perceive space, motion and interaction seamlessly. By positioning its offering at this intersection, Softionics aims to capitalize on future growth in smart surfaces, AR/VR hardware, connected vehicles, and industrial automation.

Competitive Advantages & Challenges

Advantages

Unique form-factor: Transparent, flexible, low-profile film sets the platform apart from bulky depth sensors or cameras.
Privacy-friendly: No visual imagery is captured, addressing privacy concerns in spaces such as cars, offices, or homes.
Broad material compatibility: Ability to sense through glass or surfaces simplifies integration.

Challenges

Integration and deployment: Embedding sensor films into existing manufacturing processes or materials may require collaboration with OEMs and surface material suppliers.
Ecosystem adoption: To achieve broad market traction, Softionics will need to build partnerships with platform providers, vehicle OEMs, AR/VR hardware makers and systems integrators.
Competing technologies: Depth-sensing cameras, LiDAR, radar and capacitive interfaces each have established ecosystems; Softionics must demonstrate clear differentiation in performance, cost and flexibility.

Implications for OEMs, Developers and End Users

OEMs and manufacturers gain a new pathway to embed sensing into surfaces without redesigning device appearance or adding prominent sensors.
Developers of AR/VR and robotics can access a sensing layer that removes reliance on camera processing and enables more seamless physical-digital interaction.
End users benefit from more intuitive interfaces and embedded intelligence in everyday surfaces, while potentially preserving privacy and minimizing intrusive hardware.

Outlook and Next Steps

Softionics plans to engage in pilot deployments with strategic hardware and automotive partners in the coming quarters, enabling field validation of sensor performance in real-world environments. From there, full-scale commercial roll-out of design-wins and manufacturing partnerships will be key to scaling the business.

The company’s ambition extends beyond a single product: the PercepXR platform may evolve into a family of film-based sensors covering a range of spatial sensing modalities, enabling richer physical-AI experiences across many market segments.

The introduction of vision-free electrostatic sensing via the PercepXR platform positions Softionics at the forefront of a new wave of spatial intelligence technologies enabling surfaces to sense, interpret and respond to the real world in ways previously dominated by cameras and depth sensors. With strong market timing, a differentiated form-factor, and broad application potential, the company is poised to influence how interactive surfaces are designed and experienced.

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