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Hillcrest Labs developed sensor processing technology that enabled free-space motion control, primarily for television interfaces. Its core offering, Freespace motion sensing technology, translated physical gestures into on-screen cursor movements, allowing for intuitive navigation of digital content. This technology incorporated MEMS accelerometers and gyroscopes, using advanced algorithms to compensate for human tremor and inadvertent movements, thereby creating a seamless user experience for controlling displays without direct contact.
The company was founded in 2001 as Hillcrest Communications by Dan Simpkins, later renamed Hillcrest Laboratories in 2005. Simpkins, who previously founded SALIX technologies, was driven by the insight that the growing complexity of television content necessitated easier navigation methods. This led to the development of their proprietary motion-sensing and graphical interface technologies aimed at enhancing user interaction with home entertainment systems.
Hillcrest Labs' technology was adopted by various manufacturers for integration into their products, including motion-controlled remotes for televisions and other consumer electronics. The underlying vision was to foster a more natural and engaging way for individuals to interact with digital media, moving beyond traditional input devices. The company's innovations now contribute to advanced sensing and processing solutions under CEVA, which acquired Hillcrest Labs in 2019.
Hillcrest Labs has raised $35.0M across 2 funding rounds.
Hillcrest Labs has raised $35.0M in total across 2 funding rounds.
Hillcrest Labs was a pioneering technology company specializing in sensor processing and motion control solutions for consumer electronics and IoT devices[1][2][3][4]. It developed software and hardware, including its flagship Freespace technology and MotionEngine, that fused data from MEMS sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopes to enable gesture recognition, motion sensing, and contextual awareness in devices such as Smart TVs, remotes, VR/AR systems, robotics, and smart home products[1][2][3][4]. Serving semiconductor makers (e.g., LG, Roku, TCL, Logitech, Kodak), device manufacturers, and gaming systems, Hillcrest addressed the challenge of intuitive human-device interaction by translating physical movements into precise, tremor-compensated controls, shipping over 100 million devices before its 2019 acquisition by CEVA for $11.2 million[1][2][3][4].
Founded in 2001 in Rockville, Maryland, as Hillcrest Communications by Dan Simpkins—a serial entrepreneur who previously started SALIX Technologies—the company stemmed from Simpkins' vision to simplify TV navigation amid growing content complexity[2][4]. Renamed Hillcrest Laboratories in 2005, it launched Freespace motion technology, debuting products like the Loop pointer remote and HoME zoomable TV interface in 2006[2][4]. Early traction included licensing deals with Logitech (2007 MX Air mouse), Kodak (2008), and Universal Electronics/Texas Instruments, plus consumer acclaim (e.g., PC World’s top 100 products, CES awards in 2006/2010-2012)[2][4]. Backed by investors like NEA, Columbia Capital, and Grotech Ventures, it evolved from TV-focused innovations to broader motion processing for mobiles, gaming, and VR/AR[1][2][4].
Hillcrest rode the rise of intuitive sensing in the 2000s-2010s, enabling the shift from button-based to gesture-driven interfaces amid exploding consumer electronics and early IoT/VR adoption[1][2][4]. Its timing aligned with MEMS sensor commoditization and demand for "smart" devices, powering Smart TV proliferation (e.g., first pointer-based systems) and laying groundwork for AR/VR/robotics markets where precise environmental awareness is critical[1][3][5]. By licensing to chipmakers like CEVA post-acquisition, it amplified influence in edge AI and sensor IP ecosystems, reducing reliance on legacy controls and fueling growth in immersive tech[1][3].
Now integrated into CEVA since 2019, Hillcrest's tech endures in VR/AR, robotics, drones, and next-gen remotes, bolstered by CEVA's sound/vision synergies for holistic edge sensing[1][3][6]. Upcoming trends like AI-enhanced sensor fusion, 6G IoT, and metaverse expansion will propel its legacy, potentially unlocking new licensing in autonomous systems. As immersive experiences dominate, CEVA-Hillcrest could evolve from enabler to market leader, shaping how devices "understand" motion in everyday life—echoing its TV revolution origins.
Hillcrest Labs has raised $35.0M in total across 2 funding rounds.
Hillcrest Labs's investors include New Enterprise Associates.
Hillcrest Labs has raised $35.0M across 2 funding rounds. Most recently, it raised $25.0M Series D in January 2008.
| Date | Company | Round | Lead Investor(s) | Co-Investor(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 22, 2011 | Cipia | $4.2M Series B | Gideon Wertheizer, Katsuhiko Oizumi | Eli Talmor |
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2008 | $25.0M Series D | New Enterprise Associates | |
| Jan 1, 2004 | $10.0M Series B | New Enterprise Associates |