Open Bionics

Open Bionics is a company from the United Kingdom that creates special robotic arms for people who have lost part of their arm just below the elbow. These arms are made using a technology called 3D printing, which makes them more affordable than traditional robotic arms.

Their bionic arms are very smart and can do many things. They have lights and vibrations that give the user feedback, and they can perform actions like grabbing, pinching, giving a high-five, fist bumping, and even showing a thumbs-up. This helps users do everyday tasks more easily and feel more connected with others.

The company was started in 2014 by Joel Gibbard and Samantha Payne. They work in a place called Future Space, which is also home to the Bristol Robotics Laboratory. In 2020, both Joel and Samantha were honored with MBEs for their important work in innovation, engineering, and technology. Their bionic arms have changed lives by giving people new ways to interact with the world around them.

History

Open Bionics started from an idea by Joel Gibbard after he studied robotics at the University of Plymouth. He wanted to use 3D printing to make hand prostheses, and with the help of reporter Samantha Payne, they founded the company in 2014.

In 2018, they were recognized as the Hottest Startup Founders in Europe. By late 2023, Open Bionics had expanded to several cities in the United States, including Denver, Los Angeles, Orlando, Austin, Chicago, and New York City.

Products

The first product made by Open Bionics was called the Hero Arm. It stood out because it was not only affordable but also celebrated the bionic look instead of trying to hide it. Each arm is specially made using 3D printing to fit the user perfectly, and sensors help control the movement of the fingers.

In 2025, Open Bionics introduced new versions of the Hero Arm, including the Hero Pro and Hero RGD. These new models can be used even when taken off the wearer, and they are both wireless and waterproof.

Partnerships

In 2015, Disney partnered with Open Bionics to create special superhero-themed bionic arms for young amputees. That same year, the company received the James Dyson Award for its creative engineering and also won Tech4Good's Accessibility Award. Later, in 2016, it earned a Bloomberg Business Innovators award.

In 2019, famous filmmaker James Cameron and 20th Century Fox helped give a special bionic arm to a young amputee for the premiere of the movie Alita: Battle Angel. In 2020, Open Bionics worked with gaming company Konami to make cool bionic arm covers inspired by a video game character. In 2023, the company also helped provide bionic arms to Ukrainian soldiers.

Funding

In January 2019, Open Bionics raised Series A funding of $5.9 million. The funding was led by Foresight Williams Technology EIS Fund, Ananda Impact Ventures, and Downing Ventures, with support from F1's Williams Advanced Engineering Group and others. This funding helped the company continue developing their innovative bionic arms.