Neonode

Publicly traded on NASDAQ, Neonode Inc. is a Stockholm-based technology firm established in 2001 by founders Thomas Eriksson, Remi Elfgren, and Michael Appelgren. Initially a mobile phone manufacturer that launched one of the first touchscreen smartphones, the company underwent a strategic pivot to focus on licensing its core technology after facing bankruptcy in 2008. Today, Neonode is centered on developing and licensing advanced optical sensing solutions for human-machine interaction (HMI).

The company's business model primarily revolves around licensing its proprietary technologies to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier 1 suppliers. This licensing focus is complemented by providing non-recurring engineering (NRE) services for custom application development. Neonode serves a diverse, global client base that includes Fortune 500 companies in demanding sectors such as automotive, consumer electronics, medical, office equipment, industrial automation, military, and avionics. For instance, its technology has been integrated into self-service kiosks at major international airports like Singapore Changi and used in luxury hotels and taximeters.

Neonode's technology portfolio is built on two main platforms: zForce® and MultiSensing®. The zForce® technology uses infrared light to detect any object's presence, position, size, and proximity, enabling touch and gesture control on any surface or even in mid-air. This platform powers contactless touch solutions, which can be retrofitted onto existing displays, and interactive holographic displays. The MultiSensing® platform is a computer vision software that uses AI and machine learning to analyze camera feeds for driver and in-cabin monitoring, gesture control, and object detection. These solutions are designed to be resource-efficient, running on low power. In the automotive sector, the technology is used for driver monitoring systems that exceed standard safety requirements, gesture control for in-cabin functions, and converting interior materials like wood or leather into interactive surfaces.

The company possesses a significant intellectual property portfolio, with over 100 patents worldwide for its innovations. Its technology has been deployed in over 95 million products. Neonode has also been involved in high-profile patent infringement lawsuits against major tech companies like Apple and Samsung, successfully defending the validity of its patents.

Keywords: optical sensing solutions, zForce technology, human-machine interaction, contactless touch, gesture control, in-cabin monitoring, MultiSensing platform, automotive sensors, HMI solutions, technology licensing, embedded sensing, driver monitoring systems, infrared touch, object detection, holographic interaction, aerospace touchscreens, medical device interface, rugged electronics, machine perception, touch sensor modules, interactive surfaces, computer vision software, patent monetization, OEM technology