NextInput

High-Level Overview

NextInput is a technology company specializing in MEMS-based force-sensing solutions that enhance human-machine interfaces (HMI) with intuitive touch and touchless sensing for markets including automotive, consumer electronics, wearables, IoT, industrial, and medical devices.[1][2][3] It develops proprietary ForceTouch technology to address limitations in traditional touch systems, enabling 3D force detection for more responsive interactions in smartphones, tablets, laptops, automotive touch zones, and beyond, solving key challenges in the $20 billion touch technology market.[3][4][5] The company shipped over 25 million units by around 2021 and demonstrated strong growth with zero field failures on over 30 million units, before being acquired by Qorvo, Inc. in 2021.[2][6]

Origin Story

NextInput was founded in 2011 by Ali Foughi, who serves as CEO, building on expertise in MEMS and semiconductor technologies to pioneer force-sensitive touch innovations.[1][2][3] Foughi led the company from its early days, securing key investments like Sierra Ventures' Series A, which supported rapid scaling to 25 million units shipped en route to 100 million.[2] Pivotal moments included developing turn-key solutions for diverse applications and achieving mature production with over 30 million units shipped and zero field failures, culminating in its acquisition by Qorvo in 2021.[2][6]

Core Differentiators

• MEMS-Based Force-Sensing Technology: Proprietary ForceTouch solutions enable precise 3D touch and touchless sensing, disrupting traditional HMI with superior responsiveness across consumer, automotive, and industrial uses.[1][2][4][5]
• Proven Reliability and Scale: Shipped over 30 million units with zero field failures, highlighting built-in quality and continuous improvements that exceed customer expectations.[1][6]
• Broad Market Versatility: Targets high-volume sectors like wearables, IoT, medical, and automotive, solving pain points in the $20B touch market with intuitive, next-gen interfaces.[1][2][3][5]
• Expert Leadership and Advisory: Backed by CEO Ali Foughi and an advisory board including MEMS pioneers like Steve Nasiri (InvenSense founder) and Dr. Kurt Petersen (serial MEMS entrepreneur), ensuring innovation edge.[1]

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

NextInput rode the wave of advanced HMI trends, where force-sensing MEMS enabled more natural, 3D interactions amid rising demand for touchless and intuitive controls in wearables, automotive, and IoT—markets exploding with smart devices and autonomous tech.[1][2][3] Timing aligned with the shift from 2D capacitive touch to force-aware systems, fueled by consumer expectations for immersive experiences and industrial needs for reliable sensing in harsh environments.[4][5] By shipping tens of millions of defect-free units, it influenced the ecosystem through integration into mainstream products, paving the way for Qorvo's expanded portfolio in RF and sensing tech post-2021 acquisition.[2][6]

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Post-acquisition by Qorvo in 2021, NextInput's tech likely accelerates integration into broader RF-microwave and sensing applications, capitalizing on MEMS maturity for next-gen wearables, EVs, and smart infrastructure.[2][6] Trends like AI-driven interfaces, touchless hygiene solutions (e.g., COVID-era innovations), and AR/VR will shape its trajectory, amplifying Qorvo's edge in high-growth HMI markets.[1][6] Its influence may evolve from standalone innovator to embedded powerhouse, redefining intuitive interactions as devices become more seamless and force-aware.