Swype develops a patented text input technology that enables faster, easier word entry across devices including phones, tablets, game consoles, kiosks, televisions and in-car displays. Founded by CTO Cliff Kushler and Randy Marsden and led by CEO Mike McSherry, the company released Swype 3.0 with features such as predictive tap, horizontal word choice, and an optimized design for Android Honeycomb tablets. Swype intends to use the new capital to expand internationally and to adapt its technology beyond phones and tablets to platforms such as game controllers, TVs and in-car displays. The company has grown to more than 80 employees and recently opened offices in North Carolina, Massachusetts and Korea. Financially, Swype raised an additional $2.5M in Series C, adding to $3.5M raised in March to bring the Series C total to $6M; the company previously raised $5.6M in Series B. Swype develops a touchscreen text-entry system that lets users enter words by swiping a finger across a virtual keyboard rather than tapping each letter. The interface suggests words and users select by swiping through the correct word, enabling most users to type above 40 words per minute versus roughly 30 wpm with normal text entry. The company reports its algorithms reach about 95% accuracy and that the technology works across multiple operating systems and device types, from phones to game consoles. Swype was founded in 2002 by Cliff Kushner, co-inventor of T9, and he self-funded the company for a long time before raising outside capital. The company has about 20 employees and has already been integrated into the Samsung Omnia II. After raising $5.6M in a second round, Swype plans to use the proceeds to get its technology into more mobile phones and other devices.

Total raised

$8M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Series C

Latest activity

Jul 2011