Matsuko: transforming communication

Maria and Matus shared a passion for technology and innovation, and in particular, the way that people communicate in the digital age. Maria was an artificial intelligence expert, building emotional models for social robots to bring the ultimate experience of human-computer interaction. Matus was a creator of Assassin’s Creed, a 3D specialist, connecting millions of players in online multiplayer games. Putting their skillsets together, they have created Matsuko, a real-time app that allows people to interact with holograms of each other - just like in Star Wars. Matsuko is the world’s first holographic presence app, and it is changing the way people communicate across distances. “Matsuko is more than just a name,” says Maria Vircikova, CEO. “It is a symbol of people and their potential to create amazing things together.

The pandemic changed many things about the way we interact in the work environment. Video meetings became the norm and as we are seeing, they are very much here to stay. But it’s not unfair to say that there are still things that can be improved. As Maria explains, “There are still issues, like reduced productivity when people feel encaged. What is missing in our digital online meetings is the depth, the third dimension that gives the feeling of being in the same room. That feeling of presence is super important. It’s key in evaluation, conflict resolution, for HR hiring purposes for example. 3D is also more natural for our brains. More than half of the companies in Europe offer hybrid work, so we are obliged to find the balance between remote working and productivity. Our goal is to come in with the right tools to make it as seamless and effective as possible.”

The company benefited first from a Horizon2020 grant and later an equity investment from the Slovak Venture Fund, backed by the EIF, that helped the team in its commercialisation efforts. They are already signing distribution deals with telecommunications providers, and working with sectors like construction, automotive and designers, where the added value is greatest. “We see it as the next stage in the evolution of communication,” says Maria. “All breakthroughs in technology are about connecting people and holographic technology gives you that feeling that you are with someone even when meeting remotely.”