UPDATED 21:00 EDT / JUNE 17 2015

NEWS

VR controllers get a boost with Nod Labs $13.5 million funding round

California-based startup Nod Labs landed $13.5 million in funding to work on a new line of multi-platform controllers designed for virtual reality (VR) experiences.

Nod Labs received $2.3 million in seed funding in August 2013 and is known already for developing the Nod Ring, an advanced gesture ring controller designed for connected devices. This funding round brings back previous investors including Atlantic Bridge Capital and Walden Riverwood Ventures and adds a few new faces with PointGuard Ventures, and Nautilus Venture Partners.

The current multiplatform device under development by Nod Labs is the Nod Backspin, a multiplatform devices that combines traditional and gestural inputs. With a pistol grip, a thumb-stick, and a series of buttons, it’s somewhat like half an Xbox or PlayStation controller.

The Nod Backspin already supports numerous VR platforms, including the Oculus DK2, Samsung Gear VR, and Google Cardboard.

“The industry is starting to realise the need for an input method beyond game controllers, and we’re excited to introduce the solution to the world,” said CEO and founder Anush Elangovan in a statement. He also stressed that the Nod Backspin and Nod Ring work to better enhance immersive experiences with all user interfaces from VR, augmented reality, or smart devices.

The release of this news comes on the cusp of the announcement of other VR-based control sets such as the Oculus Touch, debut at a press conference in June this year, and Microsoft controllers also coming to the Oculus VR platform.

Photo credit: Nod Labs, “Nod Backspin Controller”

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