Analysis · AI & Deep Tech

Haptique wins Panasonic Ignition cohort with smart remote

By Startup Enthusiast · 22 January 2026

What they do

Haptique makes a universal smart remote that controls older non-smart devices using infrared signals

The company won the Panasonic Ignition 3.0 cohort Demo Day in December 2025

Over 2,200 backers supported the product globally and over 800 users are active worldwide

Haptique is an Indian startup developing a universal smart remote control device.
The company's flagship product is the Haptique RS90 which runs on Android.
This device combines traditional buttons with a smartphone interface for custom controls.
It supports older non-smart devices using infrared remotes without needing Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
A companion mobile app allows tech-savvy family members to configure setups remotely.
The target users include senior citizens and non-technical people who need simple commands.
Haptique won the Panasonic Ignition 3.0 cohort Demo Day held on December 19th 2025.
Willis Desai founded the company after spending 15 years as a system integrator in India.

The company gained exposure at IFA Berlin which encouraged fellow founders to support it.
Domestic traction in India was limited so the focus shifted to Western markets like Europe.
Dr Aloknath De former CTO of Samsung India Research advised the company into the cohort.
The company is incorporated in France and participates in the La French Tech ecosystem.
Pre-orders have backed the design of a second model currently under development.

The hardware includes an extender device that plugs into a power socket.
This extender relays commands via infrared signals to connected televisions and audio systems.
The app enables remote configuration by family members who are more tech-savvy.
Pre-programmed commands include actions like Watch YouTube or Turn Everything Off.
The company targets senior citizens who find standard smart remotes too complex.
Global backing came from over 2,200 supporters through a crowdfunding route.
Currently over 800 users are actively using the product worldwide.
The business strategy focuses on early adoption in Europe due to lack of domestic traction.
A second model is being designed and backed by existing pre-orders.

The company is designing a second model backed by pre-orders.
Cantata winners can build business collaborations with Panasonic India and globally.