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UT Dallas Researchers Create Low-Cost ‘Artificial Muscles’ That Could Power the Future of Smart Clothing and Robotics » Dallas Innovates

Mengmeng Zhang, left, a research scientist at UT Dallas’ NanoTech Institute and lead author of the study, wears a U.S. Olympic team jacket embedded with artificial muscles created using an earlier, mandrel-wrapped process. At right is Ray Baughman, director of the NanoTech Institute. [Photo: UTD] Researchers at UT Dallas’ NanoTech Institute have developed a low-cost […]

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Researchers at UT Dallas’ NanoTech Institute have developed a low-cost method to fabricate artificial muscles that could open new doors for robotics, energy harvesting, and smart clothing.

But these “muscles” aren’t biological—they’re engineered fibers that behave something like them. When triggered by heat or electricity, the fibers contract, expand, or twist, producing motion without motors.

In this case, polymer yarns are a type of smart material that respond to temperature changes. The UT Dallas team’s advance could move this lab innovation closer to real-world use in clothing, robotics, and other systems that need quiet, energy-efficient movement.

In a study published March 7 in Science, the team describes a mandrel-free technique for making the springlike, thermally driven polymer muscles that can stretch up to 97% of their original length and achieve a spring index over 50.

“High-spring-index yarns can be made much less expensively by this mandrel-free method,” said Dr. Mengmeng Zhang, a research scientist at UT Dallas’ Alan G. MacDiarmid NanoTech Institute and lead author of the study. “When heated and cooled, these muscles can significantly contract and elongate due to their large spring index.”

Mandrel-free-fabricated coiled polymer fibers: Springs with a small spring index are tightly wound and stiffer than those with a higher index, which are more loosely wound and more flexible, such as a Slinky toy. Individual fiber diameter is 0.28 millimeters.
[Photo: UTD]

Innovation enables movement without motors

Traditionally, high-spring-index artificial muscles are made by wrapping fibers around a mandrel, then dissolving it—a costly process that wastes materials. The new method eliminates the mandrel altogether.

“The problem has been that there are no process reports for making mandrel-free, large-spring-index yarns other than to dissolve the mandrel after muscle coiling, which wastes the large-diameter polymer fiber that is typically used as a mandrel and creates a waste stream,” said Dr. Ray Baughman, senior and co-corresponding author and director of the NanoTech Institute.

Using dynamic covalent chemistry, the team created fibers that twist and ply themselves into springlike coils—each fiber acting as a mandrel for another. The resulting artificial muscles vary in stiffness and flexibility and can be tuned for different uses.

The research was funded by the Office of Naval Research, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, and The Welch Foundation.

From Olympic jackets to energy harvesters

The same team previously licensed mandrel-wrapped artificial muscle technology to a clothing manufacturer, which integrated the fibers into jackets worn by the U.S. team during the 2022 Winter Olympics. But the process was too costly for commercial rollout.

“Our new mandrel-free method for making high-spring-index coiled fiber avoids this major problem, so it may soon enable the commercialization of new comfort-adjusting jackets,” Baughman said.

Beyond clothing, the muscles could be used in devices that harvest mechanical energy or function as self-powered strain sensors. Zhang said the method even allows for variable spring indexes along a single fiber, enhancing adaptability.

The strokes of contraction and expansion are heat-driven, either through electricity, solvents, or electrochemical methods.

Broad team

Other co-authors include:

  • Dr. Shaoli Fang, associate research professor and co-corresponding author

  • Chemistry doctoral student Ishara Ekanayake

  • Former researchers Dr. Jiyoung Oh and Zhong Wang (PhD ’21)

  • Researchers from Texas State University, Tekirdağ Namık Kemal University, and Lintec of America

The team has applied for a patent on the technology.


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R E A D   N E X T

  • North Texas has plenty to see, hear, and watch. Here are our editors’ picks. Plus, you’ll find more selections to “save the date.”

  • Dallas’ climate plan, deemed a national leader by the Brookings Institution in 2022, is coming up on its five-year mark. Integration architect Julie Hiromoto and globe-trotting brain health policy expert Dr. Harris A. Eyre are exploring how the city’s Comprehensive Environmental and Climate Action Plan (CECAP) could benefit from a “Brain Capital” boost. Now, they believe, is the time to “formally incorporate this lever for transformative systems change.” Their work could reshape how cities approach sustainability, starting in Dallas. 

  • UT Dallas researcher Dr. Walter Voit transformed Minecraft’s 170-million-player universe into an advanced virtual training ground—for students and for AI agents tested by DARPA. His team’s Polycraft World uses gameplay to turn classroom theory into real-world expertise, covering topics from synthetic organic chemistry to nuclear plants to semiconductor facilities. Their new startup company, Pedegree Studios, has licensed the core technologies from the university to create a scalable digital pipeline for education and workforce development.

  • Combining cutting-edge research and real-world applications, the UT Dallas professor transforms public health with innovations in detection technology, including “a check engine light” for the human body. In collaboration with EnLiSense, the company she cofounded, Dr. Prasad combines chemistry with software and hardware to bring the technology to life as market-ready devices.

  • The southern half of Dallas County is home to just over 1.05 million residents. That’s about 40% of the total number of people who call Dallas County home—and roughly 200,000 more than the entire population of San Francisco. Coupled with the fact that Dallas-Fort Worth is emerging as a top life science market, as documented in a 2023 CBRE report, you can see why the DeSoto Development Corp. is including an 80-acre Life Sciences Innovation Core among its major projects. “In terms of economic development, research shows that it’s more effective when it happens regionally,” says Matt Carlson, DDC’s chief…



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Best Fitness Tracker Bands to Stay Active and Motivated | Electronics News

A fitness tracker band is a simple, powerful way to stay on top of your health and daily activity. From tracking steps and heart rate to monitoring sleep and calories, these bands keep you informed and motivated throughout the day. Lightweight and comfortable, they blend seamlessly into your routine and style. Amazon offers a wide […]

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A fitness tracker band is a simple, powerful way to stay on top of your health and daily activity. From tracking steps and heart rate to monitoring sleep and calories, these bands keep you informed and motivated throughout the day. Lightweight and comfortable, they blend seamlessly into your routine and style. Amazon offers a wide range of fitness tracker bands with different features and designs, helping you reach your goals and enjoy a more active, healthier lifestyle.


Image Source: Amazon.com



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The Mi Smart Band 6 offers a vibrant AMOLED display and essential health tracking in a sleek, minimal design. Consider this if you want a budget-friendly fitness tracker packed with features and long battery life.

Key features:

  • 1.56-inch AMOLED screen gives sharp, colorful visuals with customizable watch faces
  • 30 fitness modes cover everything from walking to yoga with auto-detection on key workouts
  • Includes SpO2, heart rate, sleep, and women’s health tracking in one compact device
  • 5ATM water resistance makes it safe for swimming or shower use
  • Screen brightness outdoors can feel dim in harsh sunlight


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Samsung’s Fit3 combines sleek aesthetics with over 100 exercise modes and reliable battery performance. Choose this if you want a lightweight tracker that blends style and smart tracking effortlessly.

Key features:

  • Tracks 100+ workouts with automatic detection for popular activities like running and cycling
  • 13-day battery life ensures low maintenance with fast top-ups when needed
  • Sleep tracking is enhanced with guided breathing and sleep stage insights
  • Metal-finish body gives it a premium look while staying light on the wrist
  • Samsung Health app integration may feel limited on non-Samsung devices


Image Source: Amazon.com



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Huawei’s Band 10 introduces AI-powered insights with a clean, metallic design and impressive wellness tools. Go for this if you want an elegant tracker that supports emotional and physical health together.

Key features:

  • AI-powered fitness monitoring provides adaptive feedback based on real-time body data
  • Sleep tracking offers pro-level analysis including respiratory patterns and sleep scores
  • Emotional wellbeing assistant tracks stress and helps regulate mood through breathing cues
  • Fast charging gives a full day’s use in just 5 minutes of charge time
  • Some features may be restricted on iOS devices depending on app compatibility


Image Source: Amazon.com



Order Now

Fitbit’s Inspire 3 focuses on overall wellness with heart rate tracking, mindfulness features, and a free 6-month premium plan. Choose this if you want deep health metrics paired with a trusted ecosystem.

Key features:

  • Continuous heart rate and SpO2 tracking support daily fitness and recovery insights
  • Premium plan unlocks guided programs, sleep scores, stress management, and more
  • Comfortable and durable band suited for all-day wear including during workouts or sleep
  • Smart notifications and reminders keep you connected without screen clutter
  • Full access to features requires app subscription after the free period ends

A fitness tracker band makes it easier to stay committed to your wellness journey, offering real-time feedback and helpful insights. With long battery life, sleek looks, and user-friendly apps, they fit perfectly into both busy and relaxed days. Amazon’s collection includes options for every budget and style preference. Explore their range and find a fitness tracker band that inspires you to move more, rest better, and take charge of your overall health every day.

Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.

 



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Japan Gaming Peripherals Market to Reach US$ 1.08 Billion

Japan’s Gaming Peripheral Industry Set for Significant Growth, Driven by Increasing Gaming Enthusiasm and Technological Advancements The Japan gaming peripherals market, valued at US$ 391.39 million in 2024, is projected to experience remarkable growth, reaching a market valuation of US$ 1,077.48 million by 2033. This expansion represents a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of […]

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Japan Gaming Peripherals Market to Reach US$ 1.08 Billion

Japan’s Gaming Peripheral Industry Set for Significant Growth, Driven by Increasing Gaming Enthusiasm and Technological Advancements

The Japan gaming peripherals market, valued at US$ 391.39 million in 2024, is projected to experience remarkable growth, reaching a market valuation of US$ 1,077.48 million by 2033. This expansion represents a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.83% from 2025 to 2033. The burgeoning popularity of gaming, the advancement of gaming technologies, and the rising demand for high-performance accessories are driving this dynamic shift in the industry.

Gain Crystal-Clear Market Overview: Get Your Copy: –https://www.astuteanalytica.com/request-sample/japan-gaming-peripherals-market

Key Factors Driving Growth in the Japan Gaming Peripherals Market

The gaming peripherals market in Japan is experiencing a surge in demand due to several factors that are reshaping the gaming experience. With the increasing number of gaming enthusiasts, especially among younger generations, and advancements in gaming technology, demand for peripherals such as gaming mice, keyboards, headsets, and controllers is at an all-time high.

Technological Advancements

One of the key drivers of growth in the Japanese gaming peripherals market is the constant evolution of gaming technologies. Innovations such as wireless connectivity, enhanced ergonomics, and customizable features are pushing the demand for next-generation peripherals. As the gaming community becomes more discerning about the quality and performance of their equipment, the market for high-tech gaming accessories is expanding rapidly.

Surging Popularity of Competitive Gaming and eSports

Competitive gaming and eSports have witnessed an exponential rise in Japan, contributing to the growing interest in high-performance gaming peripherals. With Japan being a hotspot for global eSports tournaments, the demand for specialized gaming gear, including professional-grade mice, keyboards, and controllers, is on the rise. The professional gaming scene is also influencing consumer preferences, with gamers seeking equipment that enhances their performance and provides a competitive edge.

Rising Disposable Income and Changing Consumer Preferences

Japan’s middle class, with increased disposable income, is a key factor driving the demand for gaming peripherals. As consumer preferences shift towards premium products, gamers are more inclined to invest in high-quality, durable, and advanced gaming accessories to enhance their overall experience.

Market Segmentation: Gaming Peripherals in Focus

The Japan gaming peripherals market can be segmented into several categories, each with its distinct demand drivers.

Gaming Mice: Precision and performance are paramount in gaming, making gaming mice one of the most in-demand peripherals. With advancements in optical sensor technology, customizable DPI settings, and ergonomic designs, gaming mice are expected to maintain a strong market share during the forecast period.

Gaming Keyboards: Mechanical keyboards, known for their tactile feedback and durability, are gaining popularity among gaming enthusiasts. The demand for customizable RGB lighting and programmable keys is also contributing to the growth of the gaming keyboard segment.

See What’s Inside: Detailed Market Sample Report: –https://www.astuteanalytica.com/industry-report/japan-gaming-peripherals-market

Gaming Headsets: As gaming becomes more immersive, high-quality sound systems are critical to the experience. Gaming headsets, equipped with surround sound, noise-canceling capabilities, and enhanced microphones, are becoming essential for both casual and competitive gamers.

Gaming Controllers: With the rise of console gaming and cloud gaming, controllers designed for superior comfort, responsiveness, and long-lasting durability are driving the market for gaming controllers.

Competitive Landscape and Key Market Players

The gaming peripherals market in Japan is highly competitive, with several global and local players dominating the market. Leading manufacturers such as Logitech, Razer, Corsair, SteelSeries, and HyperX are at the forefront, offering a wide range of products that cater to the evolving needs of gamers.

These companies are increasingly focusing on product innovation, user-centric designs, and customization options to capture a larger share of the market. Additionally, partnerships with gaming platforms, influencers, and eSports organizations are enabling these companies to expand their reach and solidify their position in the market.

Future Outlook: Opportunities and Challenges

Looking ahead, the Japan gaming peripherals market is poised for sustained growth. However, there are several challenges that industry players must address, such as the need for continuous innovation and the high level of competition in the space. Companies must remain agile, constantly evolving their product offerings to meet the needs of an increasingly tech-savvy and demanding gaming audience.

At the same time, the growing demand for gaming peripherals presents significant opportunities for market expansion. The rapid adoption of cloud gaming, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) is expected to further fuel the demand for specialized peripherals, creating new avenues for growth.

Conclusion

The Japan gaming peripherals market is undergoing a transformative period, driven by technological advancements, increasing gaming enthusiasm, and rising consumer demand for high-performance gaming accessories. With a projected market valuation of US$ 1,077.48 million by 2033, the industry is on track to experience significant growth in the coming years. As technological innovations continue to evolve, and the gaming community remains passionate and expansive, Japan’s gaming peripherals market holds great promise for both established and emerging industry players.

Discover In-Depth Market Insights: Sample Report Inside: –https://www.astuteanalytica.com/request-sample/japan-gaming-peripherals-market

About Astute Analytica:

Astute Analytica is a leading market research and consulting firm committed to providing organizations with actionable insights and data-driven strategies to thrive in dynamic markets. With a strong presence in both global and regional markets, we publish extensive industry reports, conduct targeted surveys, and offer custom consulting services tailored to meet specific client needs. Our expertise spans multiple sectors, including technology, healthcare, chemicals, manufacturing, energy, and more, making us a valuable partner for forward-thinking businesses.

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Silicon Valley Startups Duped by Developer Who Faked Resume, Worked 4 Jobs Simultaneously

A Mumbai-based engineer who excelled in interviews reportedly held multiple Silicon Valley startup jobs at once, often disappearing after landing offers of up to $200K. Soham Parekh impressed on paper, but founders say most of his resume was fake. As TechCrunch reports, Soham Parekh, who reportedly aced technical interviews and was offered salaries of up […]

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A Mumbai-based engineer who excelled in interviews reportedly held multiple Silicon Valley startup jobs at once, often disappearing after landing offers of up to $200K. Soham Parekh impressed on paper, but founders say most of his resume was fake.

As TechCrunch reports, Soham Parekh, who reportedly aced technical interviews and was offered salaries of up to $200,000, became the center of a startup-world cautionary tale last week when Playground AI founder Suhail Doshi posted a viral warning: “There’s a guy named Soham Parekh (in India) who works at 3–4 startups at the same time. He’s been preying on YC companies and more. Beware.”

As KRON4 reports, Doshi, who said he fired Parekh after just one week, called his resume “90% fake” and claimed he “made up constant lies,” including listing a master’s from Georgia Tech. The university told Fortune it has no record of his enrollment.

More than a dozen founders have since come forward with similar stories. At Antimetal, Parekh was reportedly the first engineering hire in 2022. “Really smart and likable,” said CEO Matt Parkhurst, but “we realized pretty quickly that he was working at multiple companies and let him go.”

At Create, Marcus Lowe said Parekh showed up once, pushed back his start date twice, and was eventually caught working for a competing startup while on Lowe’s payroll. When confronted, he ghosted.

As Fortune reports, Leaping AI co-founder Arkadiy Telegin nearly hired Parekh full time after a standout interview, offering $160K–$200K plus equity. “He really crushed my interview. I interviewed around 50 people in the prior two weeks before talking to him and he passed, by far, all of the people I interviewed,” he told Fortune. “He also was a very likeable person.”

Telegin went on to add that immediately upon being hired, Parekh started acting strangely and making excuses for why he wasn’t producing code, including drone strikes, floods, and electricity outages. He never signed a contract or sent an invoice.

In some cases, multiple Y Combinator startup founders realized after the fact they’d all been “dating the same guy,” as Telegin put it.  At least 10 companies hired and fired Parekh, and others say they rejected him after odd interview behavior or suspicious GitHub activity.

In a TBPN podcast interview, Parekh confirmed he had been working at several startups at once, sometimes up to 140 hours a week. “I’m not proud of what I’ve done,” he said. He cited financial hardship and claimed he genuinely cared about the mission of each company. Still, he admitted his actions took a toll and said, “That’s not something I endorse.”

Parekh recently announced on X that he’s now working exclusively at Darwin Studios, but both he and the CEO deleted the posts shortly after. In a statement to TechCrunch, Darwin’s founder called Parekh “an incredibly talented engineer” and said the team believed in his ability to help bring products to market.

Some see Parekh as a symptom of overemployment in remote tech culture. Others call him a scammer who’s burned founders, wasted time, and undermined trust in hiring. One developer tallied at least 10 confirmed jobs, eight rejected offers, and “likely many, many more.”

Whether Parekh’s next move is redemption or rebrand remains to be seen.

Image: RachaStock/Getty Images





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High-tech company makes key breakthrough that could revolutionize smartphones and EVs: ‘A pivotal commercial milestone’

Ampcera didn’t just put out another new product. As CEO Sumin Zhu, Ph.D, put it, “It’s a shift.” One that may change how devices like your phone and electric car hold their charge. Interesting Engineering reports that this U.S.-based company has begun commercial shipments of its nano-sulfide solid electrolyte powders. This may sound like a […]

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Ampcera didn’t just put out another new product. As CEO Sumin Zhu, Ph.D, put it, “It’s a shift.” One that may change how devices like your phone and electric car hold their charge.

Interesting Engineering reports that this U.S.-based company has begun commercial shipments of its nano-sulfide solid electrolyte powders. This may sound like a new energy sports drink, and it sort of is — but for your devices. 

These powders don’t splash around like battery liquid; they allow energy to flow through solids. In other words, the battery can run cooler, charge faster, and last a lot longer.

“A pivotal commercial milestone,” Zhu said, per Interesting Engineering. 

Ampcera itself reassured that the new materials offer “enhanced safety with 50% more energy compared to current lithium-ion batteries.”

This isn’t lab theory. Orders are in. Over 200 customers are already using the new materials in tests.

Most solid-state batteries still rely on liquids that can overheat or break down. 

This new material changes that. According to Interesting Engineering, Ampcera claims that its solid-state cells achieve an energy density of 400 Wh/kg and retain 80% of their capacity after fast charging. That’s like charging your phone before dinner and still having battery left the next week.

Fewer failures also mean fewer rare materials wasted. That cuts down on mining and reduces air and water pollution from material processing. 

“Enhanced safety with 50% more energy” isn’t just a promise — it’s already in use. A more stable battery design reduces the likelihood of thermal runaway — the kind of failure that leads to overheating or worse. For people in dense cities or sensitive environments, that reliability could mean fewer safety issues, lower insurance costs, and peace of mind.

It could also reshape how we power future tech. Think grid storage, electric delivery trucks, and even military-grade gear. Faster charging and dependable power systems affect everything from emergency response to aviation.

If supply chains cooperate, these next-gen batteries could start showing up within two years. Not splashy, but it’s the kind of upgrade, along with smart green tech like solar panels, that quietly makes things safer, faster, and cleaner to use.

Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.


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At least 36 new tech unicorns were minted in 2025 so far

With AI igniting an investor frenzy, every month, more startups obtain unicorn status. Using data from Crunchbase and PitchBook, TechCrunch tracked down the VC-backed startups that became unicorns so far this year. While most are AI-related, a surprising number are focused in other industries like satellite space companies like Loft Orbital and blockchain-based trading site […]

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With AI igniting an investor frenzy, every month, more startups obtain unicorn status.

Using data from Crunchbase and PitchBook, TechCrunch tracked down the VC-backed startups that became unicorns so far this year. While most are AI-related, a surprising number are focused in other industries like satellite space companies like Loft Orbital and blockchain-based trading site Kalshi.  

This list will be updated throughout the year, so check back and see the latest powerhouse startups who are now worth over $1 billion.

June

Linear — $1.25 billion: This software development product management tool last raised an $82 million Series C, valuing the company at $1.25 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company, founded in 2019, has raised more than $130 million in funding to date from investors including Accel and Sequoia Capital. 

Gecko — $1.62 billion: This company makes data-gathering robotics that climb, crawl, swim, and fly. Founded in 2013, the company last raised a $121 million Series D, valuing the company at $1.6 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company has raised more than $340 million in funding to date from investors including Cox Enterprises and Drive Capital. 

Meter — $1.38 billion: This company, which offers managed Internet infrastructure service to enterprises, last raised a $170 million Series C, valuing the company at $1.38 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company, founded in 2015, has raised more than $250 in funding to date, from investors including General Catalyst, Sequoia Capital, Sam Atlaman, and Lachy Groom. 

Teamworks — This sports software company last raised a $247 million Series F, valuing the company at $1.25 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company, founded in 2006, has raised more than $400 million in funding to date from investors including Seaport Capital and General Catalyst.  

Thinking Machines — This AI research company, founded just last year by OpenAI alumn Mira Murati, raised a $2 billion seed round, valuing the company at $10 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company’s investors include a16z and Nvidia. 

Kalshi — $2 billion: The popular prediction markets company, founded in 2018, last raised an $185 million Series C, valuing the company at $2 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company has raised more than $290 million in funding to date, from investors including Sequoia and Global Founders Capital. 

Decagon — This customer service AI agent company, founded in 2023, last raised a $131 million Series C, valuing the company at $1.5 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company has raised more than $231 million in funding to date, from investors including a16z and Accel. 

May

Pathos — $1.6 billion: This drug development company, founded in 2020, last raised a $365 million Series D, valuing the company at $1.6 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company has raised more than $460 million to date from investors, including General Catalyst and Altimeter Capital Management. 

Statsig — $1.1 billion: This product development platform, founded in 2021, last raised an $100 million Series C, valuing the company at $1.1 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company has raised around $153 million to date, from investors including Sequoia, Mardona, and ICONIQ Growth. 

SpreeAI — $1.5 billion: This shopping tech company last raised an undisclosed round, according to Pitchbook, that valued the company at $1.5 billion. The company, founded in 2020, has raised more than $20 million to date from investors including The Davidson Group. 

Function — $2.5 billion: This health tech company, founded in 2020, last raised a $200 million round, according to Pitchbook, valuing the company at $2.5 billion. The company has raised more than $250 million in funding to date, from investors including a16z. 

Owner — $1 billion: This restaurant marketing software company, founded in 2018, last raised a $120 million Series C, valuing the company at $1 billion, per Pitchbook. The company has raised more than $180 million in funding to date, from investors including Headline, Redpoint Ventures, SaaStr Fund, and Meritech Capital. 

Awardco — $1 billion: This employee engagement platform last raised a $165 million Series B, valuing the company at $1 billion, per Pitchbook. The company, founded in 2012, has raised more than $230 million in funding to date, from investors including General Catalyst. 

April

Nourish — $1 billion: This dietitian tele-health company last raised a $70 million Series B, according to Pitchbook, valuing the company at $1 billion. The company, founded in 2020, has raised more than $100 million in funding to date from investors including Index Ventures and Thrive Capital. 

Chapter — $1.38 billion: This Medicare guide health tech company, founded in 2013, last raised a $75 million Series D, valuing it at $1.38 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company has raised $186 million in funding to date, with investors including XYZ Venture Capital and Narya. 

Threatlocker — $1.2 billion: This Orlando-based data protection company last raised a $60 million Series E, valuing the company at $1.2 billion, according to Pitchbook. The company, founded in 2017, has raised more than $200 million in funding to date, from investors including General Atlantic and StepStone Group. 
Cyberhaven — $1 billion: This data detection company last raised a $100 million Series D in April, according to Pitchbook, valuing the company at $1 billion. The company, launched in 2015, has raised more than $200 million in funding to date, with investors including Khlosa Ventrues and Redpoint Ventures.

March 

Fleetio — $1.5 billion: This Alabama-based startup creates software to help make fleet operations easier. It last raised a $454 million Series D at a $1.5 billion valuation, according to PitchBook. It was launched in 2012 and has raised $624 million in funding to date, with investors including Elephant and Growth Equity at Goldman Sachs Alternatives.

The Bot Company — $2 billion: This robotics platform last raised a $150 million early-stage round, valuing it at $2 billion, according to PitchBook. The company, which was founded in 2024, has raised $300 million to date in funding. 

Celestial AI — $2.5 billion: The AI company raised a $250 million Series C led by Fidelity that valued the company at $2.5 billion, per Crunchbase. The company, based in California, was launched in 2020 and counts BlackRock and Engine Ventures as investors. It has raised more than $580 million in capital to date, per PitchBook. 

Underdog Fantasy — $1.3 billion: The sports gaming company last raised a $70 million Series C valuing the company at $1.3 billion, according to Crunchbase. The company, founded in 2020, has raised more than $100 million in capital to date, per PitchBook. Investors include Spark Capital. 

Build Ops — $1 billion: This software company last raised a $122.6 million Series C, valuing it at $1 billion. Build Ops, which was launched in 2018, has raised $273 million in total, according to PitchBook, with investors including Founders Fund and Fika Ventures. 

Insilico Medicine — $1 billion: The drug research company raised a $110 million Series E valuing the company at $1 billion, per Crunchbase. It launched in 2014, has raised more than $500 million to date in capital, and counts Lilly Ventures and Value Partners Group as investors. 

Olipop — $2 billion: This popular probiotic soda company last raised a $137.9 million Series C at a $1.96 billion valuation. It was founded in 2018 and has raised $243 million to date with investors including Scoop Ventures and J.P. Morgan Growth Equity Partners. 

Peregrine — $2.5 billion: This data analysis and integration platform, launched in 2017, last raised a $190 million Series C with a valuation of $2.5 billion. It has raised more than $250 million in funding to date, according to PitchBook, with investors including Sequoia and Fifth Down Capital. 

Assured — $1 billion: The AI company helps process claims and last raised a $23 million Series B, valuing the company at $1 billion. It was launched in 2019 and has raised a little more than $26 million to date, with investors including ICONIQ Capital and Kleiner Perkins. 

February 

Abridge — $2.8 billion: This medtech company, founded in 2018, last raised a $250 million Series D at a $2.75 billion valuation, per PitchBook. The company has raised more than $460 million to date in funding and counts Elad Gil and IVP as investors. 

OpenEvidence — $1 billion: This medtech company, founded in 2017, last raised a $75 million Series A at a $1 billion valuation, per PitchBook. The company has raised $135 million to date in funding and counts Sequoia Capital as an investor. 

Hightouch — $1.2 billion: The data platform, founded in 2018, last raised an $80 million Series C at a $1.2 billion valuation, per PitchBook. The company has raised $171 million to date in funding and counts Sapphire Ventures and Bain Capital Ventures as investors.

January

Kikoff — $1 billion: This personal finance platform last raised an undisclosed amount that valued it at $1 billion, according to PitchBook. The company, founded in 2019, has raised $42.5 million to date and counts Female Founders Fund, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and basketballer Steph Curry as investors. 

Netradyne — $1.35 billion: Founded in 2015, this computer vision startup raised a $90 million Series D valuing it at $1.35 billion, according to Crunchbase. The round was led by Point72 Ventures.

Hippocratic AI — $1.6 billion: This startup, founded in 2023, creates healthcare models. It raised a $141 million Series B, valuing it at $1.64 billion, according to Crunchbase. The round was led by Kleiner Perkins. 

Truveta — $1 billion: This genetic research company raised a $320 million round valuing it at $1 billion, according to Crunchbase. Founded in 2020, its investors include the CVCs from Microsoft and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. 

Clay — $1.25 billion: Founded in 2017, Clay is an AI sales platform. The company raised a $40 million Series B, valuing it at $1.25 billion, according to PitchBook. It has raised more than $100 million to date and counts Sequoia, First Round, Boldstar, and Box Group as investors.  

Mercor — $2 billion: This contract recruiting startup raised a $100 million Series B valuing it at $2 billion. The company, founded in 2022, counts Felicis, Menlo Ventures, Jack Dorsey, Peter Thiel, and Anthology Fund as investors. 

Loft Orbital — $1 billion: Founded in 2017, the satellite company raised a $170 million Series C valuing the company at $1 billion, according to Crunchbase. Investors in the round included Temasek and Tikehau Capital. 

This post was updated to reflect what Peregine does.



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This app is helping me unwind in new ways, and it might help you breathe your way to a better mood, too

I care and have thought a lot about the intersection between technology and mental health. That hasn’t always been the case, though. I owned my first smartphone at 15, did a computer science degree at 18, and landed a tech-related job at 21. But at no point did I consider how looking at a screen […]

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I care and have thought a lot about the intersection between technology and mental health. That hasn’t always been the case, though. I owned my first smartphone at 15, did a computer science degree at 18, and landed a tech-related job at 21. But at no point did I consider how looking at a screen was affecting me internally.

In recent years, that has changed. The world is more aware of the potential dangers of screen time and social media. It’s also something that I’ve thought more about as my children have gotten older. How do I shape, coach, and advise my children in these matters? It’s a question I keep coming back to.



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