CODE27 Raises $10M to Build Immersive Character Companion Hardware

The startup is developing a desktop device that uses holographic-style displays to bring virtual characters to life through voice, vision, and memory capabilities.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 2:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Interactive character technology company CODE27 has completed consecutive seed and seed extension funding rounds totaling over $10 million from leading global venture funds. The company is building dedicated hardware for immersive virtual companion experiences, combining holographic-style display technology with real-time voice, vision, and memory capabilities to bring beloved characters from anime and games into fans' everyday lives.

Why it matters

The virtual companion space has grown rapidly, but the core challenge remains: the kind of relationship-level attachment that keeps users engaged long-term is difficult for software-only experiences to achieve. CODE27's founding thesis is that a dedicated physical device can anchor the relationship in real space and introduce sensory dimensions that screens alone cannot provide, creating a more lifelike and sustainable virtual companion experience.

The details

CODE27's flagship product is a desktop interactive character companion device that uses holographic-style display technology to make virtual characters appear to exist in physical space, enabling real-time multimodal interaction through voice recognition, computer vision, and long-term memory systems. The company has raised over $10 million in total funding and launched a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2025, followed by strong initial sales in Japan.

  • CODE27 launched its Kickstarter campaign in April 2025.
  • The company generated over ¥85 million (approximately $560,000 USD) in first-day sales in Japan.
  • CODE27 has raised over $10 million in funding since 2024.

The players

CODE27

An interactive character technology company building immersive hardware and software that brings beloved characters into fans' everyday lives.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

CODE27's roadmap centers on two priorities: enhancing the interactive experience through stronger conversational intelligence, richer character animation, and expanded licensed IP collaborations, while also adding practical features such as smart home control, calendar management, and third-party integrations.

The takeaway

CODE27's vision is to build a platform centered on character creation and co-creation, where users can customize and share character appearances, abilities, and even create original storylines. The company aims to empower users to become the creators of their own virtual companions, serving simultaneously as audience and participant in the character's ongoing life.