Portl Raises Funding for Holographic Teleportation Technology

The Rise of Holographic Telepresence with PORTL

While video conferencing tools like Zoom have become commonplace, the desire for more immersive communication remains strong. PORTL is addressing this need, offering a unique solution: holographic teleportation. Their core concept, encapsulated in the slogan “if you can’t be there, beam there,” allows individuals to project their image to locations globally.

Recently, PORTL successfully secured $12 million in funding, an investment visualized as a 220-foot stack of $20 bills. This capital infusion was spearheaded by True Capital, with participation from other investors who opted for a wire transfer over a literal mountain of cash.

Expanding Applications Across Industries

According to David Nussbaum, PORTL’s founder, inventor, and CEO, the technology is gaining traction across diverse sectors. PORTL is being adopted by CEOs, brands, universities, and even crypto artists to revolutionize how they connect and interact.

The company currently has a team of approximately 40 employees, with a near 50/50 split between engineering and other roles. Around 100 full-size PORTL units, known as the Epic, have been sold, alongside a rental program for temporary installations.

Furthermore, PORTL is preparing to launch the PORTL Mini, a smaller, desktop-focused device. The product’s versatility has led to a wide range of applications in over 20 countries worldwide.

Real-World Use Cases for Holographic Technology

PORTL is currently utilized in educational settings, such as the University of Central Florida, to facilitate remote training for healthcare professionals. It’s also appearing in sports arenas, enabling athletes to engage with fans directly.

Numerous large retailers are piloting PORTL technology to enhance the shopping experience. Customers could potentially interact with virtual mannequins displaying clothing tailored to their body size and shape. Beyond retail, PORTL serves as a virtual assistant, a corporate communication tool, and an entertainment draw for events.

Quavo and Marshawn Lynch in PORTL Epics, with David Nussbaum, PORTL’s CEO and founder, in the foreground. Image Credits: PORTL

Recognition and Future Growth

Since its initial seed round, PORTL has garnered significant recognition. Reuters identified it as the top innovation at Mobile World Congress 2021 Barcelona, and the company was a finalist for multiple CES Innovation Awards in 2022.

The recent $12 million investment will fuel accelerated growth. Nussbaum highlights the importance of early investor Tim Draper, whose endorsement proved pivotal in attracting further funding.

A Vision for the Future of Communication

PORTL’s CEO envisions a future where the technology is ubiquitous. He anticipates a PORTL Mini in every home and a PORTL Epic in every conference room.

Nussbaum believes PORTL transcends a mere communication platform, positioning it as a broadcast channel. He predicts a future where the technology transforms broadcasting, communication, and even travel, becoming integrated into train stations, airports, retail spaces, medical centers, schools, and more.

Investor Tim Draper with PORTL CEO David Nussbaum. Image Credits: PORTL

The company is actively expanding its team, with hiring underway across both engineering and sales/operations departments.

Doug Raetz, co-founder and CEO of True Capital, shared his experience with the technology, stating that witnessing a PORTL demonstration felt like glimpsing the future. He noted the technology’s ability to facilitate innovative events, such as an artist launching an album simultaneously in multiple cities.

Raetz emphasized that the technology resonated with True Capital’s clients, who appreciate and actively seek out personally valuable innovations. He was particularly impressed by the strength of the team behind PORTL and their ambitious vision for scaling the business.