Fitness startup Portl raises $3 million led by Bharat Innovation Fund

The round saw participation from T-Hub Foundation and existing investor Kalaari Capital. The fresh capital infusion will help the 2021-founded startup’s product development, market expansion, and enhancement of its artificial intelligence (AI) systems.

The company had raised $1 million from Kalaari Capital in 2021. The Hyderabad-based startup makes smart mirrors that are bought and used by direct customers as well as businesses such as hotels and gyms.

The smart mirror, called Portl Studio, is a 43-inch 4K screen with embedded bio-sensors, high definition cameras and edge-AI processing. It offers real-time form feedback, health monitoring as well as telemedicine integrations. Retailing at Rs 1,25,000, exclusive of taxes, it functions as an in-built personal trainer and supports multiple users.

Users receive personalised workouts in the range of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), strength, endurance, self-defense, cardio, dance fitness, yoga, meditation and pain management.

The company also makes money off subscriptions that are included for three months after the purchase of the mirror. Subsequently, it charges Rs 500 to 750 per month.

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Founded by Indraneel Gupta, Vishal Chandapeta and Armaan Kandhari, Portl plans to broaden its product range, introducing connected strength systems designed for users of all fitness levels and expand its customer base across India and overseas markets.These systems will feature adjustable digital weight technology and multiple training modes, enhancing home-based strength training, as per a statement.

“By integrating advanced AI and innovative hardware, we aim to empower individuals to achieve their wellness goals seamlessly and effectively, delivering personalised experiences at scale and afford people the opportunity to adopt healthier lifestyles with ease,” founder and CEO Indraneel Gupta said.

“Despite its drop off from the peaks in 2021, the home fitness segment continues to excite us. Portl’s advanced AI technology provides form feedback across a variety of personalised fitness regimes, including yoga, HIIT, dance,” Ashwin Raguraman, founding partner at Bharat Innovation Fund, said.