When it comes to video transmission, quite a lot is already possible these days. But there's much more to it. Even in places we least expect it. Smart Mobile Labs, a Nokia spin-off, knows exactly how this works. The CEO of the Munich-based startup, Andreas Westhoff, is here to answer our questions today.
1. Who are you and what do you do?
Behind the name Smart Mobile Labs is a team of industry experts and young talents who want to take video transmission over the mobile network to the next level. Always with the goal of reshaping a billion-dollar market in mind. Klaus Nagora, founder and current CTO, started his own business with the idea from his time at Nokia. Klaus and I, Andreas, then came together through a contact from a business angel. Since then, other investors and partners, such as Rüdiger Hnyk (CPO), have joined us. In total, we now number more than 20 mobile enthusiasts.
many-to-many video transmission without delay
What our technology enables is both easy and difficult. Easy because it's essentially just about transmitting videos over the cellular network. Difficult because it has to happen in real time, without latency, and in a many-to-many format. That means from an infinite number of transmission sources to an infinite number of receivers simultaneously. At first glance, this doesn't seem spectacular.
It's about life and death, or an exciting concert perspective
But if you think about it more closely, there are countless scenarios in which this technology is important – whether in security, where every fraction of delay can mean the difference between life and death, or in connected cars, where the driver can virtually see through obstacles with the help of videos. Imagine, for example, being able to choose who in the band you want to watch at a concert in the Olympic Hall. You use your smartphone or tablet to do this and jump from one perspective to the other – as you please. This is one of several applications we are currently implementing.
“Orchestration of massive amounts of data over the mobile network”
2. But that's been around for a long time!
We would know that. Otherwise, we wouldn't have done our homework. There are, of course, a ton of technology providers that enable the transmission of video material over the mobile network. That's nothing new. What hasn't been implemented yet, however, is the many-to-many transmission of moving images. And what's more, in real time without any significant latency. That's new, and no one else can currently orchestrate these massive amounts of data over the mobile network.
3. What has been your biggest challenge so far?
Our business was very international from the beginning, and we traveled extensively to Asia and the US. This was because our industry experience quickly enabled us to work on large projects with Nokia and Telekom, but it was definitely an organizational and logistical challenge. From the time difference to the seemingly impenetrable corporate structures of our partners.
Despite all the early success with these projects, the goal was always to continue advancing the development of our products. Staying true to this goal and keeping the necessary resources available for this has proven challenging.
Black figures and 20 men on board
4. Let’s get down to business: How is business going?
Overall, we're fortunate to be in a solid position. Thanks to our quick start with projects, we were soon able to generate revenue and grow. We've been in the black since our first year, and our revenue is now in the seven-figure range. We're a team of 20 people who can already achieve a lot.
With investor tailwind to Asia and North America
Nevertheless, we recognize that we still need additional resources to build a scalable product business. Therefore, we are already working on a financing round that we plan to close in the coming months. Since we generate a large portion of our revenue in Asia and North America, we would like to use the support of new investors to expand our presence in these markets as well.
Short distances, ambitious talents
5. What does Munich mean to you?
Smart Mobile Labs has a true Munich heart. All founders and partners come from the greater Munich area and have roots in the area. For us, the city is our home. So what could be more natural than starting a company there? The fact that we are a spin-off from Nokia, which is itself based in Munich, also contributed to this. Especially in the beginning, the short distances were a huge advantage.
What's crucial for us as a deep-tech company about Munich is the fact that we see a great potential for ambitious, innovative graduates and experts in the area. Without the right employees, experts in their field, we wouldn't have the opportunities we have here today.
6. How will your startup become the next unicorn? Or will we see you soon at Epic Fail Night?
Realistically, it will probably be something in between. Of course, we'd rather rule out Epic Fail Night. Fortunately, we have the opportunity to work with our solutions in many industries. Because there are so many use cases for Smart Mobile Labs, it's up to us to utilize the opportunities as best we can, while maintaining focus.
The key to success, however, is the product, or rather the development of further stable products. This allows us to optimally leverage our strengths in the market, and the product business can contribute to Smart Mobile Labs' growth.
7. Helles or Prosecco?
You don't have to think twice: Helles, of course. Has anyone ever survived in Bavaria with Prosecco as a staple food?
