For thousands of years, braiding has been a lengthy and labour-intensive ritual. Now, Yinka Ogunbiyi is revolutionising the process with her robotics startup, HaloBraid. The company's first device, set for release later this year, acts as an assistant to professional stylists to speed up the braiding process.

The market for such a product is substantial: a survey of 2,000 people found that 95% would opt for quicker braids if they were available. Ogunbiyi’s research also revealed the toll long hours can take on stylists; some may even develop health issues like carpal tunnel or arthritis.

With a seed round of $7 million led by Alexis Ohanian of Seven Seven Six, HaloBraid aims to transform how braiding is done. The device is designed to complete the braid once it’s started, making the process significantly faster and gentler on the hair. Ogunbiyi has borrowed methods from material science and inkjet printing in her quest for innovation.

The tech market for textured hair remains largely unexplored despite a devoted audience eager to spend. This is where HaloBraid comes into play—Ogunbiyi envisions creating breakthrough technology that makes haircare more accessible, comfortable, and joyful.