The image is from Meta Reality Labs.
HaptX claims that Meta copied its patented designs in a glove. HaptX says parts of the glove look similar to its own work using pneumatics.
HaptX founder and CEO Jake Rubin said in a statement that competition must be fair for the industry to thrive. We look forward to working with Meta to reach a fair and equitable arrangement that addresses our concerns and allows them to incorporate our innovative technology into their future consumer products.
The Meta glove is an in-progress design that won't be commercially viable for a long time. Meta Reality Labs believes touch is a vital piece of future consumer-focused virtual reality and augmented reality systems. The glove uses inflatable rubber pads and a sophisticated control system to create a sensation of pressure or resistance when users touch virtual objects. HaptX sells its system to professional clients rather than consumers.
HaptX, formerly known as AxonVR, went public in 2016 after four years of hiding. The first glove prototype was developed by Meta researchers in the summer of 2015. HaptX claims that the two companies have had extended interactions, and that Meta has substantially expanded on its initial prototype. Rubin said that they have hosted many engineers, researchers, and executives from Meta to demonstrate their technology.
Meta has been accused of unfairly competing against other developers by limiting access to their platform. This situation is different because HaptX is accusing Meta of patent violations that could lead to legal action. HaptX wouldn't comment on what it would consider a fair agreement with Meta, as well as whether it would pursue a lawsuit if it fails to reach one.
A Meta spokesman wouldn't comment on the allegations.
