Pixelbug

Pixelbug was an augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) technology company founded in Dubai in 2012 by Dany El Eid. The firm specialized in developing AR systems to enhance customer experiences and drive sales for businesses. Initially operating on a project-based model, Pixelbug created bespoke AR and VR experiences for a prominent client list that included multinationals like Lego, Nestle, Sony, P&G, and Citibank. This strategy allowed the company to generate approximately $1.5 million in revenue early on, effectively funding its research and development.

The company's business model evolved from providing project-based services to developing its own product-led solutions. A key offering was 'colorbug', an augmented reality application that brought children's coloring books to life in 3D, mirroring the colors used on the physical paper. This product aimed to merge traditional play with digital engagement. Pixelbug provided technology-driven marketing solutions by overlaying digital content onto the physical world through camera-enabled devices, creating interactive and measurable campaigns for brands. This approach offered clients detailed analytics on user engagement, which was previously unavailable in traditional print advertising.

Throughout its history, Pixelbug secured multiple rounds of funding, including a seed round of $350K in April 2016 from investors like VentureOut and Prime Venture Partners. The company was also a recipient of a grant from the MIT Enterprise Forum Startup Competition in 2015 and participated in the Boost VC accelerator program. In 2018, the company relocated its headquarters from Dubai to Montreal, Canada, to be closer to the North American market. In February 2019, Pixelbug was acquired by Besomebody, Inc., a Cincinnati-based business innovation and job training firm, for an undisclosed amount. Following the acquisition, founder Dany El Eid joined Besomebody as Senior Director of Technology, integrating Pixelbug's AR and AI expertise into Besomebody's services.

Keywords: augmented reality, artificial intelligence, Dany El Eid, Besomebody, AR marketing, customer experience technology, colorbug app, mobile AR solutions, interactive marketing, digital content overlay, VC-backed, MIT Enterprise Forum, Boost VC, Prime Venture Partners, brand engagement, AR application development, edutainment, immersive technology, acquired startup, Montreal tech